Indigenous Literature in Public Policy: Exploring Indian Knowledge System and its Role in Environmental Law

Co-Author: Yashita Gupta

Abstract: Current state practices show that in the name of development, there have been trends of diminishing rights of citizens concerning natural resources. On the other hand, there has been an emergence of newer resources in the public forum through the development of concepts like climate education, place-based knowledge systems, eco-spirituality, etc. Rich traditional knowledge systems create customs of intimate contact and a sense of belonging towards their habitat. Indigenous knowledge contributes to biodiversity conservation, maintenance, and restoration of ecosystems, sustainable water management, tropical ecological restoration and management of other resources. But there has been a growing trend of exploitation of traditional knowledge for industrialization and commercial benefits and this has impacted the overall approach towards nature. The author wishes to explore the impact of indigenous literature, culture and practices on the economy and the role of eco-spirituality in the revival of these practices. This impact can be assessed by comparing the current economic model with the traditional one and understanding the effect of negating the Indian knowledge system in the modern policy forum. The purpose is also to challenge the freedom of the government which is allowing for the construction of buildings and structures over lands and areas traditionally protected by tribals and indigenous communities which are a reflection of their knowledge systems.

KEYWORDS: equality, freedom, liberty, eco-spirituality, climate education and regeneration, natural resources.