Environmental Movements in India: An Insightful Guide for UPSC Aspirants

February 19, 2024

16 Minutes

Environmental Initiatives in India

Environmental activism in India has been a pivotal force in driving policy changes and raising public awareness about ecological issues. This blog delves into six significant environmental movements, offering UPSC aspirants detailed insights to aid in their preparation. Understanding the origins, key figures, and the impact of these movements is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of India's environmental history.

Chipko Movement (1973)

• Objective: Aimed at protecting the dense forests of Uttarakhand from indiscriminate felling by commercial loggers. The movement sought to preserve the ecological balance and maintain the traditional rights of local communities over forest resources.
• Initiation: The movement took root in the Reni village of Uttarakhand, catalyzed by the government's decision to allot forest land to a sports goods company, sidelining the local communities' needs for fuelwood and fodder. Environmentalists Sundarlal Bahuguna and Chandi Prasad Bhatt, alongside the villagers, particularly women, played pivotal roles. The iconic act of hugging trees to prevent their felling symbolized non-violent resistance and galvanized a widespread environmental movement.
• Expansion: Beyond its origins in Reni, the Chipko Movement quickly spread to other Himalayan regions, with local communities adopting similar tactics to protect their forests. The movement's methods and message resonated globally, influencing environmental protests and policies far beyond India.
• Government Response: The widespread attention and public support for the Chipko protesters led to a significant shift in government forestry policies. In 1980, the Indian government enacted the Forest Conservation Act, which significantly restricted commercial logging and emphasized the conservation of biodiversity.
• Cultural Impact: The Chipko Movement transcended its environmental objectives, fostering a greater environmental consciousness among Indians. It highlighted the vital connection between local ecosystems and the livelihoods of rural communities, embedding environmental concerns in India's political and social discourse.
• Global Significance: The movement's success and innovative non-violent protest methods inspired environmental activists worldwide. It became a symbol of the power of grassroots activism in influencing policy and protecting the environment, paving the way for future conservation efforts on a global scale.
• Legacy: Today, the Chipko Movement is celebrated as a landmark event in environmental activism, remembered for its emphasis on the intrinsic value of nature and the strength of collective action. Its legacy is evident in ongoing efforts to balance development with environmental preservation and in the empowerment of communities to advocate for their rights to natural resources.

Silent Valley Movement (1978)

• Objective: The primary goal was to safeguard the Silent Valley, a pristine stretch of tropical rainforest in Kerala, from the adverse effects of a proposed hydroelectric dam. The dam threatened to submerge vast areas of the forest, endangering its unique biodiversity and disrupting the ecological balance.
• Initiation: The campaign was initially sparked by local concerns over the environmental impact of the dam. Environmentalists like K. S. Sudhi and prominent Malayalam poet Sugathakumari played instrumental roles in mobilizing public opinion. Their efforts were supported by a coalition of scientists, writers, and students, who highlighted the valley's ecological value through public forums, media, and scientific reports. The Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad (KSSP), a popular science movement, also played a crucial role in educating the public about the environmental stakes.
• Strategies: The movement utilized a multifaceted approach, including legal battles, scientific research to document the valley's biodiversity, and public awareness campaigns. These efforts were crucial in building a strong case against the dam, emphasizing the irreplaceable loss of unique flora and fauna.
• Government Response: The sustained campaign and mounting public pressure led to a comprehensive review by the government. In 1983, Prime Minister of India officially halted the hydroelectric project, marking a significant victory for environmental conservation in India. This decision was influenced by the strong public sentiment and the recognition of the valley's ecological importance.
• Environmental Awareness: The Silent Valley Movement was a watershed moment in India's environmental history, raising awareness about the importance of conserving biodiversity hotspots. It underscored the potential conflict between development projects and environmental conservation, sparking a national debate on sustainable development practices.
• Legal and Policy Impact: The movement's success led to increased scrutiny of development projects impacting ecologically sensitive areas. It played a pivotal role in shaping environmental policies and legislation in India, including the formulation of the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980, which tightened regulations on forest land diversion for non-forest purposes.
• Legacy and Continuing Influence: The preservation of Silent Valley as a national park stands as a testament to the power of collective environmental activism. The movement has inspired subsequent generations of environmentalists in India and globally, demonstrating that informed and persistent public action can influence government policy and contribute to the conservation of natural heritage.
• Global Recognition: The Silent Valley Movement is internationally recognized as a landmark event in the global environmental movement, illustrating how grassroots activism can protect biodiversity against the tide of industrial development. It remains a case study in environmental science and policy courses around the world.

Narmada Bachao Andolan (1985)

• Objective: The Narmada Bachao Andolan aimed to halt the construction of a series of large dams on the Narmada River. The primary concerns were the massive displacement of people, primarily indigenous tribes and rural communities, and the significant ecological disruption that would ensue. The movement sought to advocate for the rights of these communities and the protection of the river's ecosystems.
• Initiation: The movement began with grassroots activism led by Medha Patkar, a social activist who had conducted extensive field research on the river's communities, and Baba Amte, a revered social worker known for his dedication to social causes. They were pivotal in organizing the local communities, bringing the issues to national and international platforms, and challenging the dam projects through legal and public advocacy.
• Expansion and Support: The NBA quickly grew into a larger coalition of activists, academics, environmentalists, and human rights organizations. It garnered support from various sectors of society, including notable figures such as writer Arundhati Roy and organizations like Friends of the Earth. The movement's non-violent protests, including hunger strikes, long marches, and court battles, highlighted its commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability.
• International Attention: The NBA's efforts drew global attention to the plight of the Narmada River's communities and the environmental risks posed by large dam projects. It questioned the development model that prioritized large-scale infrastructure over ecological and social well-being. The movement's international visibility pressured both the Indian government and international funding agencies, notably the World Bank, which eventually withdrew its funding for the dam project.
• Impact on Policies and Practices: The movement led to significant debates on India's dam-building policies, displacement, and rehabilitation practices. It influenced the formulation of more comprehensive rehabilitation policies for displaced persons in India, although the implementation of these policies remains a challenge. The NBA has also been instrumental in fostering a critical discourse on sustainable development, environmental justice, and the rights of indigenous peoples in development projects.
• Legacy: The Narmada Bachao Andolan stands as a landmark movement in the history of environmental and social activism in India. It has inspired numerous other grassroots movements in India and globally, advocating for the rights of displaced communities and environmental conservation. The NBA continues to fight for justice for those affected by the Narmada dam projects, advocating for alternative development models that are ecologically sustainable and socially equitable.
• Continuing Challenges: The movement's accomplishments notwithstanding, it mirrors the continuing clash between developmental ambitions and the need for ecological protection. The building of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, among others on the Narmada, persists as a controversial topic, with advocates and impacted residents pressing for just and eco-friendly solutions.

Save the Western Ghats Movement (1980s)

• Objective: The primary goal of the Save the Western Ghats Movement was to protect the vast biodiversity of the Western Ghats, one of the world's eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity. The movement aimed to halt destructive development projects and promote sustainable practices that would preserve the ecological integrity of this region while supporting the livelihoods of local communities.
• Initiation: The campaign originated from the efforts of a broad coalition, notably featuring the distinguished ecologist Madhav Gadgil, who was instrumental in bringing to light the ecological significance and the challenges confronting the Western Ghats. Environmental groups, advocates, and community members from the six states covering the Western Ghats (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu) unified in action. Their collaboration was marked by numerous meetings, educational sessions, and public awareness drives, all directed towards elevating the situation of the Western Ghats to the forefront of national discourse.
• Strategies and Actions: The movement utilized a variety of strategies to achieve its objectives, including scientific research to document the region's biodiversity, public awareness campaigns, legal actions, and advocacy for policy change. One of the hallmark initiatives was the organization of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), also known as the Gadgil Commission, which was tasked with assessing the ecological status of the region and recommending conservation measures.
• Impact on Conservation Policies: The movement's efforts were instrumental in bringing about significant policy shifts. It led to increased environmental regulations for industries and development projects in the region, the implementation of stricter conservation measures, and the integration of sustainable development principles into planning processes. Notably, the movement's advocacy contributed to the designation of several areas within the Western Ghats as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognizing their outstanding universal value.
• Raising Environmental Awareness: Beyond its policy impacts, the Save the Western Ghats Movement significantly enhanced public awareness and understanding of environmental issues in India. It demonstrated the critical link between biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, influencing public discourse and education on environmental stewardship.
• Legacy and Ongoing Efforts: The movement has left a lasting legacy, inspiring ongoing conservation initiatives and environmental activism within the Western Ghats and beyond. It serves as a model for how grassroots mobilization, coupled with scientific research and advocacy, can effect meaningful environmental protection and policy change.
• Challenges and Controversies: Despite its successes, the movement also faced challenges, particularly in balancing conservation goals with economic development needs and addressing the concerns of local communities affected by conservation policies. The recommendations of the Gadgil Commission, for example, sparked debates over land use regulation and economic development, underscoring the complexities of environmental governance.

Also read: Wildlife Conservation Efforts in India

Tehri Dam Protest (2000s)

• Objective: The protest aimed to draw attention to the adverse environmental impacts and the social ramifications of displacing thousands of people due to the construction of the Tehri Dam, one of the world's tallest dams. It called for a reevaluation of the project in favor of sustainable and less destructive alternatives.
• Initiation: Sunderlal Bahuguna, an eminent environmentalist known for his role in the Chipko Movement, spearheaded the Tehri Dam Protest. He embarked on hunger strikes and mobilized support nationally and internationally, advocating for renewable energy solutions and the rights of those affected by the dam's construction.
• Impact and Public Discourse: While the construction of the Tehri Dam went ahead, the protest succeeded in igniting a broad debate on the sustainability of large dam projects in India. It questioned the environmental assessments, rehabilitation of displaced communities, and the long-term ecological impacts of such projects.
• Policy Influence: The Tehri Dam Protest contributed to a critical rethinking of dam policies in India, emphasizing the need for comprehensive environmental impact assessments and better rehabilitation strategies. It highlighted the importance of considering alternative, sustainable energy sources that have lesser impacts on ecosystems and communities.
• Legacy: The Tehri Dam Protest remains a significant chapter in India's environmental activism history. It underscores the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding large-scale infrastructure projects, environmental sustainability, and the rights of displaced communities. The protest has inspired continued activism and awareness regarding the complexities of development and conservation.

Ganga River Cleaning Movement (2014)

• Objective: The primary goal of this movement was to address the severe pollution affecting the Ganga River, restoring its historical and spiritual purity as well as its ecological health. The initiative focused on reducing industrial discharge, improving waste management, and reviving the river's biodiversity.
• Initiation: The Government of India, recognizing the urgent need to cleanse and rejuvenate the Ganga, launched the Namami Gange Programme . This comprehensive effort was designed to consolidate existing projects and introduce new measures aimed at the river's cleanup and conservation.
• Strategies and Implementation: The Namami Gange Programme adopted a comprehensive strategy, encompassing upgrades to sewage treatment facilities, the creation of effluent processing plants for industrial outlets, improvements to riverbank infrastructure, and the application of more rigorous pollution regulations. Additionally, it emphasized the importance of public awareness efforts and community involvement projects, designed to cultivate a shared commitment to the health of the river.
• Challenges and Achievements: While the initiative has faced challenges, including implementation delays and the scale of pollution, significant progress has been made. Several cleanup projects have been completed, and many are underway, showing a tangible improvement in water quality in certain sections of the river. The movement has also succeeded in raising public and international awareness about the importance of river conservation.
• International Collaboration: Recognizing the global significance of the Ganga as a symbol of environmental rejuvenation, the initiative has attracted support and collaboration from international organizations and governments. This global partnership has facilitated the exchange of knowledge, technology, and resources, bolstering the efforts to clean the Ganga.
• Cultural and Ecological Impact: Apart from its ecological goals, the initiative has been instrumental in renewing the cultural and spiritual ties between the people and the Ganga. It underscored the river's significance to India's cultural legacy and emphasized the importance of maintaining its purity for the benefit of coming generations.
• Ongoing Efforts and Vision for the Future: The Ganga River Cleaning Movement is an ongoing endeavor, with long-term plans to ensure the river's health and vitality. The government and various stakeholders remain committed to achieving a clean and vibrant Ganga, symbolizing a harmonious balance between development and ecological sustainability.

Also read: Kuno National Park: Reviving India's Wildlife

Save Aarey Forest Movement (2019)

• Objective: The movement aimed to protect the Aarey Milk Colony, a significant green belt in Mumbai, from the proposed construction of a metro car shed, which threatened the felling of over 2,000 trees. The activists sought to highlight the importance of preserving urban forests for biodiversity, climate mitigation, and the well-being of city residents.
• Initiation: The movement was sparked by the imminent threat to Aarey's trees and wildlife, galvanizing environmental activists, local residents, students, and various citizen groups into action. They utilized social media campaigns, legal petitions, and public protests to draw attention to the cause and mobilize support against the deforestation.
• Strategies and Actions: The Save Aarey Forest Movement employed a multi-pronged approach to halt the metro car shed construction. Activists organized peaceful demonstrations, tree-hugging events reminiscent of the Chipko Movement, and legal challenges in the courts. These efforts were bolstered by widespread media coverage and public endorsements from celebrities, environmentalists, and politicians.
• Government Response and Outcome: The intense public pressure and legal battles culminated in a significant victory for the movement in 2019 when the government of Maharashtra announced the relocation of the metro car shed project from Aarey Colony, thereby sparing the threatened trees and safeguarding the forest area.
• Significance and Impact: This movement underscored the power of grassroots activism in urban environmental issues, showcasing how public outcry and sustained advocacy can influence government decisions. It highlighted the critical role of urban green spaces in sustaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity, and providing recreational spaces for city dwellers.
• Legacy and Continuing Efforts: The success of the Save Aarey Forest Movement has inspired similar initiatives aimed at protecting urban natural resources across India. It has raised awareness about the need for sustainable urban planning that integrates green spaces and biodiversity conservation into development projects. The movement also set a precedent for civic engagement in environmental governance, emphasizing the public's role in shaping policies that affect their communities and natural heritage.
• Broader Implications: The success of the movement has helped people understand how crucial urban forests are to a city's environment. It has started conversations about fairness in environmental issues, ensuring communities can enjoy green spaces, and the importance of thinking about the environment when planning city development.

Conclusion

For UPSC aspirants, these movements are not merely historical events but embody the spirit of resilience and the commitment to environmental conservation. They provide valuable lessons in the power of collective action and the ongoing balance between development and ecological preservation. Understanding these movements enriches aspirants' knowledge base, equipping them with critical insights into India's environmental and social challenges.

Practice Questions for UPSC Aspirants

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Question 1: Consider the following statements about the Chipko Movement:

1. It originated in the Alaknanda River valley and not in the Reni village of Uttarakhand.

2. Sundarlal Bahuguna and Chandi Prasad Bhatt were key figures in the movement.

3. The movement led to the enactment of the Forest Conservation Act in 1980.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2

B) 2 and 3

C) 1 and 3

D) All of the above

Question 2: Regarding the Silent Valley Movement, consider the following statements:

1. The movement successfully prevented the construction of a hydroelectric project.

2. K. S. Sudhi and Sugathakumari played instrumental roles in the movement.

3. It was primarily concerned with protecting the tiger population in Silent Valley.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1, 2, and 3

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1 and 3 only

Question 3: Consider the following statements about the Narmada Bachao Andolan:

1. The movement focused exclusively on the environmental impacts of the dam projects.

2. It received support from international organizations and notable figures like Arundhati Roy.

3. The World Bank withdrew its funding for the dam projects as a result of the movement.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2

B) 2 and 3

C) 1, 2, and 3

D) 1 and 3 only

Question 4: Regarding the Save the Western Ghats Movement, consider the following statements:

1. The movement led to the creation of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP).

2. It aimed at promoting industrial development alongside conservation.

3. The movement helped in getting several areas of the Western Ghats recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3

D) 2 and 3

Question 5: Consider the following statements about the Tehri Dam Protest:

1. The protest was led by Sunderlal Bahuguna, a key figure of the Chipko Movement.

2. It resulted in the complete halt of the Tehri Dam construction.

3. The protest highlighted the social impacts of displacement and environmental concerns.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2

B) 1 and 3

C) 2 and 3

D) All of the above

Question 6: Regarding the Ganga River Cleaning Movement, consider the following statements:

1. The Namami Gange Programme was initiated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

2. Its sole focus was on cleaning the physical pollution in the Ganga.

3. The programme involved modernizing sewage treatment plants and improving waste management.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2

B) 1 and 3

C) 2 and 3

D) 1, 2, and 3

Answers and Explanations

Answer 1: B) 2 and 3

• Statement 1 is incorrect because the Chipko Movement indeed originated in the Reni village of Uttarakhand.
• Statements 2 and 3 are correct, highlighting key activists and legislative impacts of the movement.

Answer 2: B) 1 and 2 only

• Statements 1 and 2 are correct, focusing on the movement’s goals and key figures.
• Statement 3 is incorrect; the primary concern was not specifically the tiger population but the forest's biodiversity.

Answer 3: B) 2 and 3

• Statement 1 is incorrect as the movement also addressed social and human rights issues.
• Statements 2 and 3 are correct, indicating the broad support and the significant impact on funding.

Answer 4: B) 2 only

• Statement 1 is correct; the WGEEP was indeed a result of the movement.
• Statement 2 is incorrect as the movement aimed at preventing destructive development, not promoting it.
• Statement 3 is correct, recognizing the conservation success of the movement.

Answer 5: B) 1 and 3

• Statements 1 and 3 are correct, emphasizing leadership and the protest’s concerns.
• Statement 2 is incorrect; the construction of Tehri Dam proceeded despite the protests.

Answer 6: B) 1 and 3

• Statement 1 is correct, noting the leadership behind the programme.
• Statement 2 is incorrect as the programme’s scope was broader than just cleaning physical pollution.
• Statement 3 is correct, detailing the efforts made to improve the river's condition.

UPSC Mains Question

Question: Examine the role of grassroots movements in shaping India's environmental policy. Use specific examples from the article to support your arguments.

Model Answer

Introduction: Grassroots movements have been the cornerstone of environmental advocacy in India, significantly influencing the nation's policy landscape. These movements, driven by the collective action of communities, activists, and environmentalists, have highlighted the urgent need for sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Body:

• Chipko Movement: A pioneering effort in the 1970s, the Chipko Movement underscored the importance of forests for ecological balance and local livelihoods. It led to a pivotal shift in forestry policies, notably the Forest Conservation Act of 1980, which aimed to preserve biodiversity and restrict commercial logging.
• Silent Valley Movement: This movement successfully halted a hydroelectric project, safeguarding the biodiversity of Kerala's Silent Valley. It exemplified how public mobilization can lead to government action in conserving ecologically sensitive areas, influencing policies towards environmental impact assessments.
• Narmada Bachao Andolan: Focusing on the social and environmental costs of dam projects, this movement brought international attention to India's dam policies. It pushed for more comprehensive rehabilitation policies for displaced persons and underscored the importance of considering ecological and social impacts in development projects.
• Western Ghats and Tehri Dam Protests: These movements further highlighted the conflict between conservation and development. The recognition of the Western Ghats as a UNESCO World Heritage Site following advocacy efforts demonstrates the impact of grassroots movements on international recognition and policy formulation.

Conclusion: In conclusion, grassroots movements in India have played a pivotal role in shaping environmental policies, bridging the gap between development and conservation. They have not only influenced legislation but have also fostered a greater environmental consciousness among the public and policymakers. The examples of the Chipko Movement, Silent Valley Movement, Narmada Bachao Andolan, and others illustrate the transformative power of collective action in advocating for a sustainable and equitable approach to environmental management. These movements serve as a testament to the enduring impact of grassroots activism in the quest for environmental justice and sustainable development.