We are living in an important time in the history of this planet, a juncture that will define what history books of the future will depict. The story, about our relationship to Mother Bhumi(Sanskrit for Mother Earth), will either describe a phenomenal transformation or a tragically wasted opportunity.Climate change is no longer an abstract concept, it is a harsh reality. India as a nation has undergone many transformations in the past three decades – from a struggling agrarian economy into a booming technological power house. In the race to catch up with other advanced economies, India has been repeating the same mistakes as others, compromising its ecological health and biodiversity for economic prosperity. But now, the impact of climate change is hitting it hard. More than 60% of the population is dependent on climate sensitive sectors. This global ecological crisis is one we cannot escape.

Hindu sacred texts, the Vedas, explain how divinity manifests in the form of the creation, and how every element in creation, the Pancha Maha Bhutas – Bhumi(earth), Gagan(sky), Vayu(air), Agni(fire) and Neer(water)are held sacrosanct.For millennia the Indian society followed this eco-centric philosophy and had love, affection, respect and passion for the elements. It is quite common to see rivers, mountains, forests, and even plants and animals considered holy in India. Traditional Vedic rituals, customs, practices, and lifestyle have been centered on such eco-centric values. At its very heart, Vedic culture respects nature’s diversity, and shows us that by living respectfully of nature, we can create a meaningful development model.

These traditions have long protected the ecological systems of India. But today, these Vedic values are slowly diminishing. As Albert Einstein once said, “We cannot solve our problems with the same level of thinking that created them”. So it is time to elevate our level of thinking by fostering these eco-centric Vedic perspectives for finding solutions to climate change and creating models of sustainable development. We as human beings must think and adopt the lifestyle where these Divine elements and their sustenance is not interfered. We must adopt best practices to accomplish our desires with good actions, and embed them into our very culture and lifestyle. We must pledge that we do not interfere with the divine and move on this Shrusti(creation) with harmony.