Indian Supreme Court Leads Global Shift from Human-Centric to Eco-Centric Jurisprudence

New Delhi: India has made a groundbreaking contribution to global environmental jurisprudence by becoming the first country to transition from a human-centric to an eco-centric approach in its legal decisions. This shift was highlighted by Supreme Court Justice PS Narasimha at the National Conference on Environment-2025, organized by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) at Vigyan Bhawan. The conference brought together policymakers, legal experts, scientists, and environmental activists to discuss innovative approaches for environmental conservation and sustainability.

From Anthropocentrism to Eco-Centrism: A Paradigm Shift

Historically, legal frameworks worldwide have followed an anthropocentric approach, which places human welfare above all else and values nature primarily for its utility to people. This perspective has often led to the overexploitation of natural resources, deforestation, and environmental degradation. In contrast, the eco-centric perspective prioritizes the intrinsic value of nature, recognizing that ecosystems, forests, rivers, and animals have inherent rights that must be protected, independent of their usefulness to humanity.

Justice Narasimha elaborated on this transformation, stating, “It is the first time that our Supreme Court has accepted this shift. Internationally, we are the pioneers in embracing an eco-centric approach, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.” He attributed this transition to India’s deep-rooted cultural traditions, which view nature as a living entity rather than a resource to be exploited. He emphasized that Indian jurisprudence aligns with ancient environmental ethics found in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions, where nature is revered and protected.

Legal Foundations of the Eco-Centric Approach

The Supreme Court has employed several constitutional provisions to enforce eco-centric principles. Articles 32 and 142 of the Indian Constitution have been instrumental in passing judgments that uphold environmental rights and ensure justice for nature. These articles provide the judiciary with the power to issue necessary directives to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices.

Justice Narasimha emphasized that the court’s eco-centric approach is not only a legal necessity but also a moral obligation, ensuring the protection of biodiversity for future generations. He called for legislative reforms to further strengthen environmental laws and ensure their effective implementation.

Landmark Supreme Court Judgments Paving the Way for Eco-Centrism

India’s judiciary has played a pivotal role in shaping this transformation through several landmark judgments:

1. T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad vs Union of India (1996): This case significantly expanded the definition of ‘forests,’ ensuring that all green spaces—regardless of ownership or classification—are protected under conservation laws. The judgment emphasized the need to preserve India’s ecological balance by preventing deforestation.
2. Center for Environmental Law, WWF-India vs Union of India (1998): The Supreme Court directed the government to enhance conservation efforts and strictly implement the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This judgment reinforced the importance of protecting India’s rich biodiversity and endangered species.
3. N.R. Nair vs Union of India (2000): The Supreme Court ruled that animals are sentient beings and possess the right to live with dignity, free from cruelty and exploitation. This case set a crucial precedent for animal welfare in India.
4. Animal Welfare Board of India vs A. Nagaraja (2014): The court upheld an eco-centric approach by banning Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport, on the grounds of animal cruelty. The ruling prioritized animal rights over cultural traditions, reinforcing the principle that nature and wildlife must be protected regardless of human interests.

These rulings illustrate the judiciary’s commitment to protecting nature not just as a resource for humans but as an entity with its own rights. The legal shift ensures that environmental conservation takes precedence over commercial and developmental interests.

Insights from the National Conference on Environment-2025

The National Conference on Environment-2025 provided a platform for meaningful discussions on environmental preservation and sustainability. The conference saw participation from key policymakers, legal experts, scientists, and grassroots activists dedicated to tackling climate change and promoting ecological balance.

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who was the chief guest at the event, praised India’s leadership in environmental jurisprudence. He stated, “India’s proactive approach to environmental protection sets a global example. The shift from anthropocentrism to eco-centrism in our legal system reflects our commitment to a sustainable future.”

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the conference, emphasizing the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges. She highlighted that climate change, deforestation, and pollution pose serious threats to humanity and must be addressed through a multidisciplinary approach involving legal reforms, scientific advancements, and public awareness.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta also spoke at the event, acknowledging the government’s commitment to addressing environmental concerns. “India’s environmental challenges are significant, but our dedication to resolving them is even greater. Through effective policies and judicial intervention, we can restore ecological balance and secure a sustainable future,” he said.

NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava commended the discussions held at the conference, stating that the four strategic sessions provided valuable insights into key environmental concerns, including air pollution, water conservation, forest protection, and sustainable development. He stressed the importance of continued collaboration between legal institutions, environmental experts, and policymakers to develop innovative solutions for environmental protection.

Implications of India’s Eco-Centric Legal Approach

The Supreme Court’s shift to an eco-centric perspective has far-reaching implications for environmental law and policy:

• Strengthening Wildlife Protection: Future legal frameworks may introduce stricter regulations on deforestation, habitat destruction, and illegal wildlife trade.
• Recognition of Nature’s Rights: India’s legal system may move toward granting legal personhood to natural entities such as rivers, forests, and mountains, following global examples like Ecuador’s constitutional recognition of the Rights of Nature.
• Climate Change Mitigation: By integrating eco-centric principles, India can enhance its climate policies, ensuring that industrial and economic activities do not compromise ecological sustainability.
• Global Influence: India’s leadership in eco-centric jurisprudence may encourage other nations to adopt similar legal frameworks, fostering a worldwide movement toward environmental conservation.

A Call for Global Adoption of Eco-Centric Jurisprudence

Justice Narasimha concluded his address by urging global legal systems to rethink their approach and incorporate eco-centrism into their frameworks. “If we return to grassroots solutions and move beyond Western-imposed environmental models, we can restore the Earth to its pristine state,” he stated. He emphasized that developing nations must lead the way in redefining environmental laws, ensuring that ecological integrity is upheld alongside economic development.

India’s shift from anthropocentrism to eco-centrism marks a historic milestone in global jurisprudence. As climate change intensifies, this transformation may prove crucial in ensuring the long-term survival of both humanity and the planet. With India at the forefront, this legal revolution could inspire a global movement, fostering legal frameworks that recognize and protect the environment as an independent entity rather than merely a resource for human consumption.

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