Ecosystems—comprising living organisms and their physical environments—are the foundation of all life on Earth. Their conservation is essential for ecological balance, biodiversity preservation, and sustaining human life. 1. Provision of Essential Services Ecosystems provide crucial services such as clean air and water, soil fertility, pollination of crops, climate regulation, and waste decomposition. Forests, for instance,…
Tag: india
What is ADB? State Any Four of Its Goals.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank established in 1966 with its headquarters in Manila, Philippines. Its primary objective is to promote social and economic development in Asia and the Pacific through loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments. ADB functions as a financial institution dedicated to reducing poverty and fostering sustainable…
Role of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in Environmental Protection in India
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has emerged as a powerful tool in the Indian judicial system to promote environmental justice and sustainability. Introduced in the late 1970s and early 1980s, PIL allows any public-spirited individual or organization to approach the courts on behalf of marginalized communities or public causes. In environmental matters, PILs have ensured that…
Two Factors of Inequality Between Developed and Developing Countries
The disparity between developed and developing countries remains a pressing issue in global development discourse. These inequalities manifest in economic, technological, environmental, and human development indicators. Two primary factors contributing to this imbalance are: 1. Economic Disparity One of the fundamental factors of inequality lies in the stark differences in economic development. Developed nations, such…
Discuss the strategies adopted for achieving sustainable development in mountain ecosystems. Give suitable examples.
Strategies for Achieving Sustainable Development in Mountain Ecosystems Mountain ecosystems are highly diverse, fragile, and critical for the sustenance of both local and downstream populations. They provide essential resources such as water, biodiversity, medicinal plants, and minerals. However, these regions are also vulnerable to climate change, deforestation, unsustainable agriculture, and socio-economic marginalization. Sustainable development in…
Describe the Methods and Tools for Stakeholder Participation
Stakeholder participation can take many forms—ranging from information sharing to active collaboration and empowerment. The appropriate method depends on the project stage, socio-political context, and available resources. 1. Public Consultations and Hearings These are formal meetings where citizens are informed about a policy or project and given the opportunity to comment. In India, Environmental Impact…
What is the Importance of Stakeholder Participation in Sustainable Development?
Definition of Stakeholders A stakeholder is any individual, group, or organization that has an interest in or is affected by the outcomes of a decision, policy, or project. In the context of sustainable development, stakeholders include: Importance of Stakeholder Participation: Stakeholder participation is the process of involving these diverse groups in planning, decision-making, and implementation…
What are the Key Indicators of Sustainable Development?
Definition of Indicators: Indicators are quantifiable variables used to assess, compare, and track the progress of sustainable development. They provide evidence-based data to inform policy decisions, monitor outcomes, and promote accountability. The United Nations Framework: Under the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are broken down into 169 targets and…
What is Meant by Sustainable Development?
Definition and Origin: Sustainable development is a multifaceted concept that refers to a model of progress which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This widely accepted definition comes from the Brundtland Report (1987) titled Our Common Future, issued by the World Commission on…
Differentiate Between Anthropocentric and Eco-centric Worldview
A worldview is a philosophical or cultural lens through which individuals or societies perceive and interpret their relationship with the natural world. Environmental worldviews guide how people interact with ecosystems and natural resources. Let us examine two major worldviews in environmental ethics: Anthropocentric and Ecocentric. 1. Anthropocentric Worldview (Human-Centered) Definition:The anthropocentric worldview places humans at…
What is meant by Environmental Ethics?
Definition and Scope: Environmental ethics is a sub-field of philosophy that studies the moral relationship of human beings to the environment and its non-human contents. It explores the ethical principles governing human interaction with the natural world and considers the moral status of animals, plants, ecosystems, and the biosphere. At its core, environmental ethics asks…
Explain any Two Poverty Alleviation Programme
Over the years, the Government of India has introduced various Poverty Alleviation Programmes (PAPs) to address both rural and urban poverty. These programmes aim to generate employment, provide food security, and support social welfare. Let us examine two prominent initiatives: 1. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005 Overview: MGNREGA is a landmark…