Article
Protection of Environment and Promotion of Development: The Hindu Wisdom of Sustainable Development

By : T. V. Muralivallabhan

Page No: 146-180

Abstract
The Classical and Neo-classical mechanistic economic development models believed in the unlimited supply of natural resources and unlimited economic growth. The practice of these models since the 18 th century has resulted in severe depletion of resources and the degradation of society and the environment. Sustainable development has become the new global slogan for solving the above problems. Protection of the environment while promoting development is the crux of Sustainable Development. It is inclusive of the satisfaction of the needs of the present as well as the future generations. Scientific research, technological innovations, government policies and economic programmes are being adopted to achieve sustainable development at the national and international levels. But the success rate is limited. Scientists are now thinking of a paradigm shift by incorporating religious, cultural, and spiritual traditions and values. India has a rich tradition in environmental protection and development, thanks to her holistic vision and integrated approach realized through the Advaitha principle of Vedanta Philosophy. She could be the torchbearer in the global efforts to achieve sustainable development.

Author :
Dr. T. V. Muralivallabhan is the Director of Marian Institute of Management, Kuttikkanam, Kerala.
He is a former Independent Director of the Public Sector MSTC, Kolkata, and former Principal of NSS college, Vazhoor, Kottayam, Kerala.
An earlier version of the article was presented at the National Conference of the Prjna Pravah, in Kochi, Kerala, in April 2015.