How was environment treated earlier? What has been the change in perception? Discuss.

Answer: The environment was treated as a ‘free’ entity and any industry or individual could pollute the environment without any restrictions. There were very few laws to protect and conserve the environment in India. The government also paid no attention to safeguarding the environment.

Now, there has been a change in perception. The government has introduced various laws to protect and conserve the environment, such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. The courts have given out a number of judgments upholding the right to a healthy environment as intrinsic to the fundamental right to life. Various laws and procedures to check pollution and clean rivers have been formed. The government can also impose a fine on those who pollute our precious environment.