Editorial
, Volume: 21( 1)Environmental Policy and Governance in India
Youssef Benali*
Department of Environmental Policy and Governance, University of Tunis, Tunisia,
*Corresponding author: Youssef Benali. Department of Environmental Policy and Governance, University of Tunis, Tunisia,
Email: youssef.benali.env@policyresearch.tn
Received: may 04, 2025; Accepted: may 18, 2025; Published: may 27, 2025
Abstract
Abstract
Environmental policy and governance play a crucial role in addressing environmental challenges arising from rapid economic growth, population pressure, and resource exploitation. In India, environmental governance has evolved through a combination of constitutional provisions, legislative frameworks, regulatory institutions, and judicial interventions. Despite significant progress, challenges such as weak enforcement, institutional fragmentation, and conflicts between development and conservation persist. This article examines the structure, effectiveness, and challenges of environmental policy and governance in India, emphasizing the need for integrated and participatory governance approaches to achieve environmental sustainability.
Keywords: Environmental policy, environmental governance, sustainable development, regulatory frameworks, India
Introduction
Environmental governance in India has developed in response to growing concerns over pollution, resource degradation, and ecological imbalance. The country’s constitutional framework recognizes environmental protection as a fundamental duty of citizens and a responsibility of the state [1]. Over the years, India has enacted several environmental laws and policies aimed at regulating pollution, conserving natural resources, and promoting sustainable development. Key legislative instruments such as environmental protection acts, pollution control laws, and biodiversity regulations form the backbone of India’s environmental governance system [2]. These laws are implemented through central and state-level institutions responsible for monitoring, regulation, and enforcement. However, rapid industrialization and urbanization have placed immense pressure on regulatory agencies, often exceeding their administrative and technical capacity [3]. Environmental governance in India is further shaped by the role of the judiciary, which has actively intervened in environmental matters through public interest litigation [4]. Judicial decisions have strengthened environmental protection by enforcing the precautionary principle, polluter pays principle, and sustainable development. While judicial activism has enhanced accountability, it has also raised concerns about overlaps between judicial and executive functions. Challenges such as poor coordination among institutions, inadequate public participation, and limited access to environmental information continue to hinder effective governance [5]. Addressing complex environmental issues requires transparent decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and integration of environmental considerations into development planning. Strengthening environmental governance is essential for balancing economic growth with ecological sustainability.
Conclusion
Environmental policy and governance in India have made notable progress through legislative, institutional, and judicial mechanisms. However, persistent challenges related to enforcement, coordination, and public participation limit their effectiveness. Enhancing institutional capacity, promoting transparency, and encouraging community involvement are critical for improving environmental governance. A robust and adaptive governance framework is essential for addressing emerging environmental challenges and achieving sustainable development in India.
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