Q. What is sustainable development? How can sustainability be achieved in India where livelihood needs conflict with environmental protection?
UPSC Sociology 2024 Paper 2
Model Answer:
Sustainable Development
Sustainable development, as defined by the Brundtland Commission (1987), is “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” It balances economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection.
In India, where many depend on natural resources for livelihoods, achieving sustainability requires integrated approaches addressing both economic needs and conservation. Strategies include:
1. Community Participation: Engaging local communities in environmental decision-making fosters ownership and responsibility. The Chipko Movement exemplifies how grassroots activism can protect forests while supporting community livelihoods. Sociologist Vandana Shiva highlights the role of women and indigenous communities in conserving biodiversity.
2. Inclusive Policies: Programs like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provide employment while promoting sustainable practices such as water conservation and afforestation. This aligns with Amartya Sen’s capability approach, emphasizing expanding people’s abilities to lead lives they value.
3. Appropriate Technology: Adopting environmentally friendly technologies suitable for local conditions can reduce ecological footprints. India’s push for renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, illustrates this approach.
4. Education and Awareness: Environmental education cultivates awareness about sustainable practices. Paulo Freire’s concept of critical consciousness suggests that education empowers individuals to challenge and change unsustainable societal structures.
5. Gandhian Philosophy: Mahatma Gandhi advocated for self-sufficient village economies and minimalistic living. His principle of “Sarvodaya” (welfare of all) emphasizes that true development considers the well-being of every individual and the environment.
6. Legal Frameworks: Strengthening environmental laws and ensuring their implementation can balance development and conservation. Civil society organizations act as watchdogs, ensuring accountability.
By integrating community needs with environmental policies, India can achieve sustainable development that harmonizes livelihoods and ecological protection, promoting a holistic view of sustainability.
