Environmentalism is not a fixed concept. It is always evolving and is influenced by its context. This also applies to Indian environmentalism. The concept of environmentalism has developed and changed throughout the years. There is a rapid evolution in the Indian legislation on the environment after independence. We can see environmental laws even from ancient times which include Buddhism and Jainism rules. The legacy of these ancient laws continues to the medieval and British era and the coming of modern legislations on environmental laws in India. A great sense of concern has been shown by the legislature and even the Indian judiciary regarding the environment with its landmark judgments.

The Hon’ble Supreme Court through its various judgements also held that the right to life includes right to clean environment, drinking water and pollution free atmosphere. These judgments include the famous Taj Mahal Case, Dehradun Valley Case, Smoking in Public Places Case, Pollution in Delhi Case, Sri Ram Food and Fertilizer Case, Public Health Case, Public Park Case and several landmark judgments on Sustainable development.The policies regarding the environment has changed very rapidly through legislations as well as the judicial interpretations but still there is need of further growth and development in this regard.The environmental protection legislation in many countries is not effective like in the case of India. The regulations are only effective if they are properly enforced. The proper enforcement of these laws were not done in India as of now.Because of the huge population of India there have been enormous demands placed on the environment and these regulations are not efficient in dealing with the current scenario.

Keywords: Environment, Legislation, Pollution