UPSC Mains 2025 GS2 Q15: model answer

Environmental pressure groups are organised groups that try to influence public opinion and government decisions on the environment without seeking political power. They include movements, NGOs, research bodies and citizen groups.

Raising awareness

• Chipko (1973) made forest rights of hill women a national issue.
• Centre for Science and Environment's reports on pesticides in soft drinks (2003) and on Delhi's air.
• Campaigns like Save Aarey and Save Mollem drew young urban citizens.

Influencing policy

• Silent Valley campaign led to the national park (1984).
• Advocacy shaped the Forest Rights Act, 2006 and CNG for Delhi buses.
• Kalpavriksh and others gave inputs on biodiversity law and EIA rules.

Advocacy and litigation

• M.C. Mehta cases on the Taj, Ganga and vehicle pollution.
• T.N. Godavarman case widened the meaning of 'forest'.
• Narmada Bachao Andolan put rehabilitation at the centre of dam policy.
• Petitions before the National Green Tribunal.

Limitations

• Accused of stalling projects; foreign funding questioned under FCRA.
• Urban bias; local livelihood voices sometimes ignored.
• Shrinking space for public consultation in EIA.

Pressure groups are the conscience of environmental governance. Their credibility rests on sound data and local roots, and the State gains by treating them as partners.