THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES AND THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THEIR TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE IN CONSERVING ENVIRONMENT
This paper sheds light on the plight of indigenous communities as victims of climate change whose concerns have been institutionally sidelined and paid disregard by both the governmental and non-governmental bodies. The knowledge of the indigenous communities that has been garnered by them through centuries of experience and seasonal survival strategies shall be helpful in adapting and mitigating climate change, however, owing to our obsession with the modern and scientific methods, such traditional ecological knowledge is not paid due regard hence acting as retarding force in our collective development. The paper further enlightens regarding the intricate connection of indigenous communities and environment and how reciprocity exists between healthy environment and these people.
The paper elucidates the injustice being meted out to these communities and seeks to enforce restorative justice through governmental measures. The paper attempts to sensitise the conscience regarding the sufferings of indigenous communities owing to disproportionate burden being placed on them despite contributing least to the adverse climatic changes. These communities have been forced to relocate and adapt to new changes in lifestyle which impacts their health and development. These communities share a spiritual bond with their lands and struggle to survive in the world of redrawn boundaries where these communities have been dislocated either regionally or nationally.
The persecution faced by these people is a relic of historical colonization and contemporary capitalistic developments across the globe. This builds a strong case for indigenous communities to come forward and voice their concerns regarding the injustice faced by them. Restorative justice is the need of the hour to correct testimonial and environmental injustice. The paper elucidates the role played by Indian judiciary in safeguarding their rights while highlighting the significance of adaption and restoration.
