Indian Economy On The Eve Of Independence

Environment and sustainable development

EnvironmentWhat is meant by environment?The total planetary inheritance and the totality of resources is called environment. In simple language; our surrounding is called our environment. The environment is composed of two types of components, viz. biotic and abiotic. The biotic components include all the living beings, while the abiotic components include non-living things like air, water, soil, etc.

Functions of the environment Environment supplies resourcesIt assimilates wastes It sustains life by providing biodiversity It also provides aesthetic services like sceneryFactors contributing to land degradation in IndiaLoss of vegetation due to deforestation Unsustainable firewood and fodder extractionShifting cultivationEncroachment into forest lands Non-adoption of adequate measures for soil conservation improper crop rotationState Of Environment In India India Has Abundant Natural Resources In Terms Of Rich Quality Of Soil, Hundreds Of Rivers And Tributaries, Lush Green Forests, Plenty Of Mineral Deposits Beneath The Land Surface, Vast Stretch Of The Indian Ocean, Ranges Of Mountains, Etc. Air Pollution, Water Contamination, Soil Erosion, Deforestation And Wildlife Extinction Are Some Of The Most Pressing Environmental Concerns Of India. The Priority Issues Identified Are :- (I) Land Degradation (II) Biodiversity Loss (III) Air Pollution (Vehicular Pollution In Urban Cities) (IV) Management Of Fresh Water And (V) Solid Waste Management.Ways to protect the environmentUse compact fluorescent light bulbsIt is true that these bulbs are more expensive, but they last much longer and they can save energy and in the long term your electricity bill would be reduced.Walk or cycleDriving is one of the biggest causes of pollution. If you want to use your car, ask yourself the following question: do I really need my car? Walk or use your bike if the journey is a short oneTurn off your devicesWhen you do not use a house device, turn it off. For example, if you don't watch TV, turn it off. Turn off the light when you leave a room (even if you intend to return.) It's an easy habit to take up which will help you save a lot of money.

Sustainable developmentThe development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

It contains within it two key concepts:> The concept ofneeds, in particular the essential needs of the world's poor, to which overriding priority should be given.> The idea oflimitationsimposed by the state of technology and social organization on the environment's ability to meet present and future needs."

6Features Of Sustainable development Sustained rise in real per capita income and economic welfare. Rational use of natural resources . No reduction in the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. No increase in pollution.

Strategies for Sustainable development The following strategies should be adhered to, for sustainable development. Use of Non-conventional source of Energy India is mostly dependent on thermal and hydropower plants which have adverse environmental impact. Non-conventional sources like wind and solar says are cleaner and greener technologies, which can be effectively used to replace thermal and hydropower.

Use of Cleaner fuels Use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is being promoted to be used as fuel. In Delhi, the use of CNG as fuel in public transport system has lowered air pollution and the air has become cleaner. The use of LPG and Gobar Gas is being promoted which reduces air pollution.

Establishment of Mini-Hydel plants Mountain regions and streams are used to generate electricity through mini Hydel plants. These are environment friendly. Traditional Knowledge and Practices Traditionally all practices relating to agriculture system, health care system, housing, transport etc. used to be environment friendly. The shift from the traditional system has caused large scale damage to the environment as our social heritage.

Use of Bio-Compost The use of chemical fertilizers to increase the Agricultural production has not only adversely affected the large areas of productive land but also contaminate the water bodies. Increases in demand for organic food demand for dung are in increased use which is an important fertilizer and soil conditioner. Control of Bio pestChange in unsustainable patterns of consumption and productionIndia has taken large number of steps for sustainable development. A bio- effector method of controllingpests(including insects, mites, weeds and plant diseases) using other living organisms.

Examples of Sustainable DevelopmentSolar EnergyThe greatest advantages of solar energy are that it is completely free and is available in a limitless supply. Both of these factors provide a huge benefit to consumers and help reduce pollution. Replacing non-renewable energy with this type of energy is both environmentally and financially effective.Wind EnergyWind energy is another readily available energy source. Harnessing the power of wind energy necessitates the use ofwindmills; however, due to construction cost and finding a suitable location, this kind of energy is meant to service more than just the individual. Wind energy can supplement or even replace the cost of grid power, and therefore may be a good investment and remains a great example of sustainable development.

Crop RotationThe online dictionary defines crop rotation as the successive planting of different crops on the same land to improve soil fertility and help control insects and diseases.This farming practice is beneficial in several ways, most notably because it is is chemical-free. Crop rotation has been proven to maximize the growth potential of land, while also preventing disease and insects in the soil. Not only can this form of development benefit commercial farmers, but it can also aid those who garden at home.Efficient Water FixturesReplacing current construction practices and supporting the installation of efficient shower heads, toilets and other water appliances can conserve one of Earths most precious resources: water. Examples of efficient fixtures include products from the EPAsWater Sense program, as well as dual-flush and composting toilets.

ConclusionEconomic development, which aimed at increasing the production of goods and services to meet the needs of a rising population, puts greater pressure on the environment .Sustainable development aims at promoting the kind of development that minimizes environmental problems and meets the needs of the present generations without compromising the ability of the future of the future generation to meet their own needs. Made by Kanwal Preet 13