Reviving Ancient Traditions: The Key to Modern Environmental Challenges

Sunita Narain emphasizes the importance of reviving ancient Indian traditions in water harvesting, food diversity, and agriculture to tackle current environmental issues. She criticizes the romanticization of these traditions through rituals, urging a rational and humane approach to development and cultural practices.

Sunita Narain, a distinguished environmentalist, advocates for the revival of ancient Indian traditions like water harvesting and food diversity to address current environmental issues. Speaking at the IHC Samanvay at the India Habitat Centre, Narain emphasized the need to redefine development by drawing from India's ecological past.

Narain criticized the superficial celebration of traditions through rituals, such as religious dips in polluted rivers and excessive fireworks during festivals. She called for a rational approach, stressing that genuine culture evolves from principles of humanity and rationality.

Highlighting historical water management practices, Narain noted how colonial influences disrupted localized systems, leading to environmental degradation. She urged the return to cooperative, community-driven traditions to ensure sustainable water management and environmental stewardship.

(With inputs from agencies.)