CULTURAL PRACTICES AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW IN INDIA: BRIDGING TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND MODERN CONSERVATION

Abstract

India’s vast cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its diverse and traditional ecological practices, which have been integral in maintaining ecological balance for centuries. From the Himalayas to the coastal plains of the south, Indian communities have developed a rich tapestry of cultural practices interwoven with environmental stewardship. These practices often extend beyond the scientific understanding of ecology, embodying a holistic approach to conservation that balances human needs with those of the natural world. As environmental challenges like climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss become more pressing, India's environmental laws have increasingly started to recognize and incorporate these traditional practices, acknowledging the critical role they play in sustainable development and ecological balance. One prominent example of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in India is the practice of maintaining sacred groves—forest areas preserved for religious or cultural reasons. These groves, dedicated to local deities or ancestral spirits, have long been untouched by deforestation or hunting and serve as biodiversity reserves. They reflect the deep-seated belief that nature itself is sacred, which has indirectly contributed to the preservation of flora and fauna across regions. However, with rapid modernization and urbanization, many of these traditional practices are under threat, prompting the need for their integration into legal frameworks to ensure their continuation. In recent years, India's environmental laws have gradually evolved to accommodate traditional knowledge and cultural practices, demonstrating that sustainable development in India can be achieved by respecting both modern science and indigenous wisdom.