SWACHH BHARAT ABHIYAN: AN ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE

Abstract

Environment means “the natural world, as a whole or in a particular geographical area, especially as affected by human activity”. It can also be defined as “the aggregate of social and cultural conditions that influence the life of an individual or community”.1 It is needed, therefore, to have a healthy environment so that the human beings can survive without being susceptible to the ill effects of diluted environment. Human beings interact with the environment constantly and these affect quality of life and health disparities. This environment can be termed as human environment as the humans are dependent on the environment in every aspect of their life. The Stockholm Conference, 1972 laid down 26 principles2 regarding preservation and enhancement of human environment so that the Governments of member countries can abide by it and regulate their environment.3 The government can make environmental policies to protect its environment based on these principles. These policies need to be implemented prudently so that the human environment can be sustained for the future generations to come. This goal of having a healthy environment should be pursued harmoniously to achieve economic and social development.