Sustenance is a foundational principle in Indian ethos, influencing interactions with nature, people, material possessions, and internal values, the Economic Survey 2023-24 said on Monday.
This principle, long embedded in philosophical and practical approaches, now faces a global spotlight. While regions traditionally associated with overconsumption increasingly advocate for sustainability, India finds itself tasked with aligning its historical beliefs with modern economic and environmental demands, the Economic Survey 2023-24 said.
India’s economic growth and environmental responsibilities
The Economic Survey 2023-24 said that as the world’s most populous country and currently the fifth-largest economy, India is projected to become the third-largest economy by 2030. This growth is expected to drive energy needs at a rate approximately 1.5 times faster than the global average over the next three decades. Despite notable achievements, India is often criticised as one of the largest polluters. This criticism persists even though other major contributors have made less progress.
The Indian Way: A austainable lifestyle
India’s resilience during global crises is frequently attributed to its profound spiritual and philosophical understanding of natural cycles. This resilience is rooted in a deep respect for nature, perceived as a powerful entity with its own laws and rhythms. Indian philosophy advocates for alignment with nature’s cyclical order rather than imposing human-centric industrial strategies that disrupt its balance.
Traditional Indian wisdom offers significant insights into sustainable living. While recognising the need for policy-level changes, there is also a strong emphasis on the role of individual actions in emission generation and reduction. This perspective underscores the importance of integrating personal responsibility into environmental strategies and awareness programmes, as detailed in the Economic Survey 2023-24.
Mission LiFE: A step towards collective responsibility
Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP26), represents a significant initiative in India’s approach to sustainability. This initiative emphasises individual responsibility within the global climate discourse, inspired by ancient Indian principles of harmonious living with nature. Mission LiFE promotes a lifestyle aligned with environmental sustainability, advocating for both individual and collective actions that support pro-planet choices.
The initiative includes a comprehensive set of 75 actions designed to encourage sustainable living practices. By integrating traditional wisdom with modern environmental goals, Mission LiFE aims to foster a balanced and harmonious relationship with the planet. The Economic Survey 2023-24 highlighted this initiative as a crucial element in India’s sustainability strategy.
As India navigates the complexities of global sustainability demands, its philosophical heritage offers a unique perspective. The integration of traditional wisdom with contemporary practices provides a model for blending individual responsibility with global environmental efforts, as outlined in the Economic Survey 2023-24.
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Economic Survey: How India is embracing sustainable living amid global clamour
