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VOL. 7, ISSUE 5 (2025)
The role of citizen activism in climate change protection in West Bengal
Authors
Prasanjit Thakur
Abstract
The impacts of climate change are becoming
more noticeable in the ecologically fragile regions of West Bengal,
particularly in the Darjeeling hills and the Sundarbans delta. These
geographically distinct regions face unique yet interconnected climate
challenges ranging from glacial retreat, erratic rainfall, and landslides in
the hills to rising sea levels, salinity intrusion, and increased frequency of
cyclones in the Sundarbans. While governmental and institutional responses have
often been slow or insufficient, citizen activism has emerged as a vital force
in promoting local resilience and environmental justice. In the hills,
grassroots organizations and youth groups have taken initiatives to promote
sustainable agriculture, prevent deforestation, and raise awareness on climate
education. In the Sundarbans, community-based networks have organized mangrove
replantation drives, disaster preparedness training, and advocacy for
climate-resilient infrastructure. These efforts have often operated in the
absence of or in response to inadequate governmental intervention, showcasing
the power of local knowledge and community participation. Citizen activism has
also leveraged digital tools and social media to amplify voices from marginalized
communities, pressuring policymakers to prioritize climate adaptation and
mitigation measures. Despite limited resources, these local movements have
created replicable models of environmental stewardship and resilience. This
paper explores the evolving landscape of citizen-led environmental activism in
these two regions, examining how localized initiatives are responding to global
environmental threats. It highlights the ways in which grassroots movements are
not only filling governance gaps but also fostering a deeper sense of
environmental responsibility among residents. By documenting and analyzing
these efforts, this study aims to underscore the importance of bottom-up
climate governance and advocate for stronger policy support and recognition for
community-driven solutions.
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Pages:19-23
How to cite this article:
Prasanjit Thakur "The role of citizen activism in climate change protection in West Bengal". International Journal of Social Science and Humanities, Vol 7, Issue 5, 2025, Pages 19-23
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