Development has a cost element attached to it. What would be your suggestion for sustainable development in Himachal Pradesh? (HPAS Mains Question Paper 2022 – GS 1, Q.12)
Although development may result in beneficial outcomes such as higher economic growth, better infrastructure, and expanded access to services, it can also have severe consequences for society and the environment. Development may occasionally result in community dislocation, environmental damage, inequity, cultural loss, and resource exploitation.
For example, the building of massive infrastructure projects such as dams and motorways may result in community dislocation and environmental damage. Industry growth may result in air and water pollution, posing health risks to communities. Economic development may exacerbate inequality by benefiting some individuals more than others. Modern lives may result in the loss of traditional traditions and cultural identity. Natural resource exploitation for development objectives may harm the lives of those who rely on them.
In the Indian context, there are various instances to say that development has a cost attached to it. Some of them are:
1. Displacement of communities: The construction of significant infrastructure projects such as dams, roadways, and airports often necessitates the relocation of villages. The building of the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River, for example, displaced over 320,000 people from their homes and agricultural land.
2. Environmental degradation: Development may result in environmental degradation, impairing populations’ health and well-being. Industrialization and urbanization, for example, have resulted in air and water pollution, which may cause respiratory ailments, skin disorders, and other health issues.
3. Inequality: Although development may boost economic growth and provide new possibilities, it can also exacerbate inequality. For example, the advantages of economic progress may not be dispersed evenly throughout society, resulting in socioeconomic gaps and social conflicts.
4. Cultural loss: When ancient customs and beliefs are frequently supplanted by contemporary lives and behaviours, development may lead to a loss of cultural identity. The growth of Westernized lifestyles in metropolitan regions, for example, has resulted in the erosion of traditional traditions and beliefs.
5. Resource exploitation: Development may result in exploiting natural resources such as minerals and forests. This may impact the ecosystem and the lives of those who rely on these resources. For example, coal mining in tribal regions has resulted in community dislocation and environmental destruction.
Himachal Pradesh is a one-of-a-kind state with a diversified culture, abundant wildlife, and critical natural resources. To guarantee long-term development, it is essential to balance economic expansion with social and environmental concerns.
Suggestions for sustainable development in Himachal Pradesh could be as follows:
1. Promote eco-tourism: Himachal Pradesh’s natural features include mountains, rivers, and forests. By promoting eco-tourism, the state can encourage sustainable tourism that benefits local communities and the environment. The state, for example, may invest in eco-tourist infrastructure, educate local guides, and encourage responsible tourism practices.
2. Developing renewable energy: Himachal Pradesh has much potential for renewable energy like solar and hydropower. The state may minimize its dependency on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions by investing in renewable energy. For example, the state has already established various hydropower projects, such as the 800 MW Kol Dam project, which produces clean energy while generating cash for the state.
3. Promoting organic farming: Himachal Pradesh has a strong legacy of sustainable and healthy organic farming. The state may promote sustainable land use practices and help local farmers by encouraging organic agriculture. For example, the state may teach farmers, support local organic food markets, and encourage sustainable agricultural techniques.
4. Safeguarding biodiversity: Himachal Pradesh has a diverse biodiversity, including some endangered plant and animal species. The state can guarantee that future generations may enjoy these benefits by safeguarding biodiversity. For example, the condition can create protected areas, such as wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, and enforce regulations to prevent illegal hunting and deforestation.
5. Implement waste management practices: Himachal Pradesh has a significant waste management problem, and the government can reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal by implementing better waste management practices such as recycling, composting, and waste segregation.
6. Promote public transportation: To reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions, Himachal Pradesh can promote public transportation, such as electric buses, shared taxis, and bicycles.
7. Implement water conservation measures: To conserve water resources and improve water availability for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use, the state government can implement water conservation measures such as rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and water-use efficiency.
