Globalisation refers to the process of increasing interconnectivity and interdependence of the world’s markets, cultures, and societies. It involves the free flow of goods, services, capital, people, and information across borders, resulting in a more integrated global economy. Globalisation is facilitated by advancements in technology, communication, and transportation, which have made it easier for people…
Category: political-science
Briefly explain any five challenges to sustainable economic growth.
Sustainable economic growth refers to a pattern of growth that is inclusive, resource-efficient, and environmentally responsible. It aims to raise living standards without undermining the planet’s ecological systems. However, achieving such growth faces significant challenges: 1. Resource Depletion: Overexploitation of natural resources such as fossil fuels, minerals, forests, and fisheries threatens the sustainability of economic…
What is the multi-dimensional approach to the study of sustainable development? State its policy orientation. Also name any six associated approaches to assess this policy orientation.
Multi-Dimensional Approach to Sustainable Development: Sustainable development is inherently complex and interlinked, involving a variety of domains—economic, environmental, social, political, cultural, and technological. The multi-dimensional approach acknowledges that no single discipline or perspective is sufficient to capture the full scope of sustainability. Instead, it encourages an integrated, holistic framework that considers various sectors and stakeholders…
Explain the terms ‘Carrying Capacity’ and ‘Ecological Footprint’ giving suitable examples.
Carrying capacity is a concept rooted in ecology, referring to the maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can support sustainably over time without degrading the ecosystem. When applied to human societies, it means the ability of the Earth or a specific region to provide the resources required for people’s needs—such…
What is the focus of sustainable development? List any four sustainable and unsustainable activities each.
Focus of Sustainable Development: Sustainable development is a development paradigm that seeks to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The concept gained international prominence after the 1987 Brundtland Commission Report, also known as “Our Common Future”. Its focus is multidimensional and integrates…
Describe the global efforts towards the protection of environment and natural resources.
Global environmental protection involves multilateral efforts—laws, treaties, protocols, and conventions—aimed at ensuring sustainable use of natural resources and safeguarding ecosystems. Key Global Environmental Agreements and Initiatives: Other Global Initiatives: India’s Role in Global Environmental Governance: Conclusion: Global efforts have evolved from awareness-building to legally binding instruments and funding mechanisms. While progress is uneven, multilateralism remains…
What is climate change? Discuss the impact of climate change on agriculture and health in India.
Climate change refers to long-term alterations in global or regional climate patterns, particularly those arising from increased levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) due to human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrialization. The impacts are already visible through rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, glacial retreat, and sea-level rise. Impacts of Climate Change on Agriculture…
What is biodiversity? Why is biodiversity conservation important for sustainable development?
Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of all forms of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity within species (genetic diversity), between species (species diversity), and among ecosystems (ecosystem diversity). It includes microorganisms, plants, animals, and the ecological complexes they are part of. Biodiversity forms the foundation of the Earth’s life-support systems and is vital…
Discuss the importance of community-led initiatives for sustainable development. Highlight the roles of Panchayati Raj Institutions and NGOs.
Community-led initiatives are grassroots-level efforts that involve local people in planning, implementing, and monitoring development activities. These initiatives are critical to sustainable development because they: Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs): The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act institutionalized PRIs as decentralized governance systems in India. Their role in sustainable development includes: Example: In Kerala, PRIs played…
Goals and Activities of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank that aims to promote social and economic development in Asia through various programs and projects. ADB’s work focuses on reducing poverty, promoting sustainable development, and improving living standards. Three Goals of ADB: Two Activities Performed by ADB:
Sustainable Development of Hill Areas
Hill and mountain regions such as the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, and the Aravallis in India are ecologically fragile yet economically vital. These regions are sources of biodiversity, fresh water, and medicinal plants and play a vital role in maintaining climatic and hydrological balance. However, these areas face challenges like deforestation, soil erosion, landslides, overgrazing,…
Concept of Carrying Capacity and Ecological Footprint
Carrying Capacity: Meaning and Significance Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustain indefinitely, given the availability of food, habitat, water, and other necessary resources. In the context of human societies, it is the ability of Earth to support human life without degrading natural resources and ecosystems….