CLIMATE CHANGE AND  ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE IN INDIA: A SOCIO-LEGAL STUDY WITH REFERENCE TO PUNJAB

Amita Khanna; Sukhpreet Kaur

doi:10.29121/shodhkosh.v7.i9s.2026.8040

Authors

Amita Khanna Research Scholar of Law, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, India
Sukhpreet Kaur Research Scholar of Law, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v7.i9s.2026.8040

Keywords:

Climate Change, Environmental Law, Environmental Degradation, Public Awareness And Governance., Air And Water Pollution In Punjab

Abstract [English]

This study investigates the interrelationship between climate change, environmental degradation, and the enforcement of environmental laws in Punjab. Despite a strong legal framework—comprising the Environment (Protection) Act, Air Act, and Water Act—implementation remains inconsistent and ineffective. Using an empirical and descriptive research design, data were collected from 100 respondents representing legal professionals, environmental officials, NGOs, doctors, academicians, and the general public. Statistical tools such as Chi-square and Pearson correlation analyses were applied to assess perceptions, awareness, and enforcement challenges. Findings indicate that climate change, industrial pollution, and agricultural practices such as stubble burning are widely recognized as major causes of environmental decline. However, gaps persist in public awareness, inter-departmental coordination, and institutional accountability. Mean scores around 3 suggest moderate confidence in governance, while significant Chi-square values confirm that responses are structured and non-random. Correlation results show strong linkages between pollution, governance, and enforcement perceptions, reflecting an integrated public understanding of environmental issues. The study concludes that while awareness exists, enforcement mechanisms require reform through enhanced transparency, participatory governance, and inter-agency collaboration to achieve sustainable environmental protection in Punjab.

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