Environment and ecology plays prominent and pivotal roles in the evolutionary phases of mankind since existence on the earth. Human societies are strongly dependent on their natural resources. Today, the human world is standing at a crucial juncture of its development. The phenomena of the environment and ecology have acquired an important role and relevance during contemporary times. It was primarily due to the ecological imbalances that are predominantly generated by human actions. An environmental study entails a multidisciplinary approach that combines all the sciences, humanities with social sciences in order to understand the origins of environmental issues and concerns. It has complex linkages with each other resulting in long lasting impacts on human beings and natural resources as well. The origin, writings and approaches of environmental history have long historical backgrounds and diversities. This book is a sincere endeavour to explore the origin of environmental history, its brief approaches around the world, perspectives, themes and issues of Indian environmental history since ancient times. However, the narratives of environment, development and society would be helpful for holistic understandings of the concepts such as ‘Sustainable Development’, Vision ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 and ‘Indian Knowledge Systems’ (IKS). Furthermore, this book intends to promote, encourage scholarly interdisciplinary studies and research in the domains of environmental sciences, management, social sciences and humanities in the context of ‘National Education Policy’ (NEP):2020.

This book is valuable for a wide range of readers, including students, teachers, researchers, and scholars from diverse disciplines, as well as strategic planners, visionary leaders, governmental bodies, bureaucrats, corporate firms, environmental activists, NGOs, media professionals, eco-tourism experts, specialists in developmental studies, legal professionals, and scholars in women’s studies. It encourages us all to reflect on how a stronger, more detailed, critical, and comprehensive understanding of our past environmental interactions, ecological footprints, and legacy can provide concrete support in the urgent task of building a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for everyone on this planet.

Dr. Bhimashankar Birajdar is presently working as Assistant Professor and Head, Department of History,  Kisan Veer Mahavidyalaya, Wai (Maharashtra). He has 13 years Teaching Experience, Awarded Ph.D. in ‘Environmental and Ecological Movements in Maharashtra (1960-2010 AD)’, by Shivaji University, Kolhapur (2022). His areas of specializations are ‘Environmental and Ecological History, Modern Indian History, Contemporary Indian History and Eco-Tourism’, Published more than 20 Research Papers/Articles in reputed National/International/UGC CARE Listed Research Journals/Volumes and Proceedings, 02 Chapters in Edited Books and 01 E- Book as a Co-author to his credit. He completed one Minor Research Project (MRP) on ‘Gandhian Environmentalism’ (2019) and presently engaged in a Research Project entitled ‘Global  Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability in Challenges and Developmental Alternatives’ in Western Maharashtra (MRP) funded by Shivaji University, Kolhapur. He has delivered more than 15 invited lectures as an Expert, Chairperson, and Resource Persons in National, International, State Level Seminars/Webinars, Conferences, and Workshops. He is also working on several academic and professional bodies.