Dinesh Kumar
In recent years, the conversation around climate change and environmental degradation has gained urgency across policy platforms. Yet, despite growing awareness, India continues to grapple with a paradox: while environmental regulations exist on paper, their translation into effective action often falls short. During my time as a fellow under the Environmental Policy and Action Youth Fellowship (EPAYF) at IMPRI, I had the opportunity to deeply reflect on this gap between policy and implementation, particularly in the context of natural resource governance.
My research journey has focused on understanding how environmental policies are shaped and executed at the grassroots level, especially in ecologically sensitive regions. Drawing from field experiences, interactions with local communities, and the policy sessions during the fellowship, I realized that governance is not merely about laws—it is about people, participation, and power structures.
The Disconnect Between Policy Intent and Local Realities
Environmental governance in India is marked by a complex interplay of central and state-level authorities. Policies like the Forest Rights Act (2006) and the Environmental Protection Act (1986)
demonstrate strong legal intent. However, their implementation is uneven across states. Through discussions and case study analysis during the fellowship, I examined how decentralized governance mechanisms—such as Panchayati Raj Institutions—often lack the capacity or political will to enforce these frameworks effectively.
In one instance, while reviewing community forest governance models in Madhya Pradesh, I noticed how local knowledge systems were sidelined in favor of technocratic approaches. Forest dwellers, despite being primary stakeholders, were rarely involved in planning or decision-making processes. This led me to question: Can sustainable governance be achieved without empowering local voices?
Youth Engagement: A Missing Link
One of the most enlightening aspects of the EPAYF fellowship was the emphasis on youth engagement. Environmental policy has long been seen as the domain of seasoned bureaucrats and experts. Yet, it is the youth who will inherit the consequences of today’s ecological decisions. Despite this, there is minimal structured engagement of young people in environmental policymaking.
During the fellowship, I participated in dialogues with policymakers, civil society leaders, and researchers who shared practical strategies for integrating youth into environmental action. What struck me most was the idea that youth are not just beneficiaries of policies—they can be co creators of solutions. Whether through climate education in schools or youth-led advocacy campaigns, there is a need to institutionalize youth participation at every level.
Learning from the Fellowship: Key Takeaways
The EPAYF sessions helped me understand the broader landscape of environmental policy in India— from climate finance and international negotiations to the nuances of environmental justice. A recurring theme was the importance of interdisciplinary thinking. Environmental challenges are interconnected with issues of poverty, inequality, and development. Addressing them requires bridging gaps between scientific knowledge, legal frameworks, and grassroots action.
Another critical insight was the value of evidence-based policymaking. In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly, policy decisions must be grounded in reliable data and contextual analysis. Through IMPRI’s emphasis on research-based approaches, I learned how to translate academic insights into policy-relevant recommendations. For instance, I explored how environmental impact assessments (EIAs) can be redesigned to be more inclusive and transparent, especially in projects affecting tribal communities.
Towards a Just and Inclusive Environmental Future
India stands at a pivotal moment. The effects of climate change are no longer distant—they are felt in erratic monsoons, rising heatwaves, and water crises. The need for responsive and inclusive environmental governance has never been more urgent. This includes recognizing the rights of marginalized communities, investing in environmental education, and fostering partnerships between government, academia, and civil society.
As a youth fellow and researcher, I believe our role is not just to critique existing systems but to actively contribute to reforming them. The journey ahead is complex, but programs like the EPAYF provide a platform for emerging voices to be heard, trained, and empowered. My own experience has reaffirmed my commitment to working at the intersection of policy, research, and action.
In conclusion, environmental governance is not a static process—it evolves through dialogue, learning, and participation. As India looks to the future, the meaningful inclusion of youth in environmental discourse is not just desirable—it is essential. We must move from tokenism to true engagement, from policy prescriptions to participatory planning. Only then can we hope to achieve a sustainable and equitable future for all.
Acknowledgement: I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the IMPRI team and facilitators of the Environmental Policy and Action Youth Fellowship for their mentorship and guidance. Their dedication to empowering youth in the development sector is truly commendable.
About the contributor: Dinesh Kumar is an MA candidate in Natural Resources and Governance based in Hyderabad, Telangana, and a fellow of EPAYF 2.0 – Environment Policy and Action Youth Fellowship, Cohort 2.0.
Disclaimer: All views expressed in the article belong solely to the author and not necessarily to the organisation.
Read more at IMPRI:
Petals Of Power: UN Women and Bloom of Equality
Eco-Spiritualism: A Path to Sustainable Living
Acknowledgment: This article was posted by Riya Rawat, researcher at IMPRI.
