Environmental Sustainability: Concept in Rigveda

Vedic literature appears to preserve a number of philosophical thoughts and directive ideology for guiding peaceful, self-sustainable, sound and viable living of the biotic world. It is surprising to find the scientific base of such thoughts and ideas bearing resemblance with modern day scientific concepts in the Vedic literatures which were embodied in the dawn of Indian civilisation. The present article is intended to introspect into the thoughts and ideas contained in the Rigveda specifically in relation to land, water and environment sustainability. A glimpse into these thoughts reveals strong relevance to sustainability, management and conservation strategies developed by modern day science. It also signifies a comparative analysis between the thought of Rigveda in the above context and the modern scientific concepts in the above subject matter. The observation made in this article generates a perspective with an indication that the Rigveda is highly capable to provide meaningful and effective strategies for a balanced life support system on this earth in future.