Indic sustainability ethics:

insights from the indian philosophical and cultural context

Abstract

Sustainability has long been an essential concept in various global philosophies, emphasizing the need for harmonious coexistence with nature and equitable resource distribution. in the indian context, this idea is deeply embedded in ancient texts, cultural practices, and political thought, where sustainable living was considered not only an ecological responsibility but also a moral and ethical one.This paper explores the long-standing concept of sustainability in india, rooted in its ancient philosophical, cultural, and political frameworks. indian philosophy, particularly through the concepts of dharma, ahimsa, and ecological balance found in the vedic and upanishadic traditions, has long advocated for a harmonious relationship with nature and equitable resource distribution. The bhakti movement further emphasized social equality and environmental reverence, while leaders such as shivaji maharaj and shahu maharaj institutionalized these values through policies promoting sustainable agriculture, resource management, and social welfare. by tracing this evolution, the paper argues that sustainability has always been integral to indian thought, offering valuable insights for addressing contemporary global challenges.