Q15. What are environmental pressure groups? Discuss their role in raising awareness, influencing policies and advocating for environmental protection in India.
Possible Introductions
Definition-based:
Environmental pressure groups are non-state, voluntary organisations that mobilise public opinion and influence decision-makers to protect the environment, natural resources, and ecological rights.
Contextual:
In India, from the Chipko Movement (1970s) to present-day climate advocacy by groups like Fridays for Future–India, such organisations have been pivotal in shaping environmental discourse.
Philosophical:
They act as a voice for the voiceless — rivers, forests, wildlife, and future generations, ensuring ecological concerns are not sidelined by developmental priorities.
Main Body
1. Role in Raising Awareness
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- Grassroots Mobilisation: Chipko Andolan (Uttarakhand, 1970s) highlighted deforestation; Narmada Bachao Andolan raised awareness on displacement & ecological costs of big dams.
- Education Campaigns: NGOs like Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) publish State of India’s Environment; Paryavaran Suraksha Samiti mobilises communities against industrial pollution.
- Youth Activism: Fridays for Future (India chapter) sensitising citizens on climate change.
2. Role in Influencing Policies
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- Judicial Activism via PILs: M.C. Mehta’s petitions led to landmark SC rulings (Ganga pollution, vehicular emissions, Taj Trapezium case).
- Lobbying for Legal Frameworks: Influenced laws like Environment Protection Act (1986), Forest Rights Act (2006), and EIA policy reforms.
- Shaping Institutions: Advocacy led to creation of National Green Tribunal (2010).
- Global Linkages: Pressure groups shaped India’s stance in climate negotiations (climate justice, Paris Agreement).
3. Role in Advocacy & Environmental Protection
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- Community Rights: Niyamgiri struggle against bauxite mining protected tribal rights.
- Anti-Pollution Campaigns: Movements against air & water pollution (Delhi’s clean air movement, Yamuna Jiye Abhiyan).
- Wildlife & Biodiversity: Advocacy for tiger reserves, biodiversity heritage sites, anti-poaching laws.
- Sustainable Development Models: NGOs promoting organic farming, renewable energy, watershed management.
Sweet Spot – Table
| Function | Example | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Awareness | Chipko, CSE reports | Mobilised public opinion |
| Policy Influence | M.C. Mehta PILs, EIA reforms | Stronger laws & SC directives |
| Advocacy | Narmada Bachao, Niyamgiri protests | Balanced development vs displacement |
| Global Linkage | Climate justice advocacy | India’s cautious yet ambitious commitments |
Possible Conclusions
Balanced:
Environmental pressure groups in India have acted as watchdogs, educators, and advocates, bridging the gap between citizens and the state.
Critical:
While sometimes labelled “anti-development” or foreign-funded, their role in ensuring sustainability and inclusivity cannot be ignored.
Policy-linked:
Strengthening participatory mechanisms like EIA consultations and Gram Sabha consent (PESA/FRA) can make their role more constructive.
Forward-looking:
In the age of climate change, environmental pressure groups are indispensable partners for India@2047, ensuring growth aligns with sustainability and justice.
