Ecology and Resilience: Role of Gender in Indian Context

By : Vinita Yadav , Renuka Gajanan Oka

Page No: 515-531

Abstract
Environmental governance is important for fostering socio-ecological resilience. Ecofeminism is rooted in women’s struggles for survival and sustenance. The paper studies intersection of ecofeminism and socio-ecological resilience as gender equality and women’s representation has been central to environmental governance. The objectives are to understand foundations of ecofeminism, assess contributions of women in restoring ecology and formulate strategies for women’s participation in environmental governance. An intensive literature review is carried out on ecofeminism and Socio Ecological Resilience (SER) framework. Chipko Movement and Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) are considered as case-studies. These exemplify women’s agency in grassroots resistance in India’s environmental activism. They are analysed for women’s participation at an intersection of actor interventions and ecosystem services through SER framework. Women’s traditional knowledge and leadership plays a decisive role in sustainable resource management and environmental conservation. The research addresses ecofeminism struggles and recommends adoption of a collective framework for women-led environmental governance.

Authors
Prof. Dr. Vinita Yadav, Professor, Department of Regional Planning, School of Planning and Architecture, 4, Block B, IP Estate, New Delhi.
Renuka Gajanan Oka, Research Scholar, Department of Regional Planning, School of Planning and Architecture, 4, Block B, IP Estate, New Delhi, & Associate Professor, School of Architecture, CMR University.
 

DOI: DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/NL.2025.57.04.7