ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION THROUGH NGOs IN PUDUCHERRY REGION

At the beginning of the 21st century environmental issues have emerged as a major concern for the welfare of the people. In India, the concept of environmental protection can be seen starting from the period of Vedas. The protection of environment is an urgent issue. Every individual, organization and institution has an obligation and duty to protect environment. Environmental protection encompasses not only pollution but also an sustainable development and conservation of natural resources and the eco system. Present day, the necessity of environmental awareness and enforcement is more demanding and urgent than ever before. The emergence of Non-Governmental Organizations being one of the most effective media to reach the people today, may play a significant role in environmental protection. There are more than 28 NGOs and Voluntary Organizations in Puducherry region out of which large numbers of them are focused on human wastage, air and water pollution. They played very important role in conservation of natural resources and environmental protection. A non- governmental organization is a social service organization working towards a better society. A similar recognition of the role of NGOs working on environmental programmes is gaining increasing recognition at the local level. These are in addition to older groups whose work touched upon some environment related activity involving natural resources, settlement planning, pollution and create awareness among the people on current environmental issues and solutions. Puducherry region has a number of NGOs that work in the field of environmental protection and conservation. For Mahatma Social Service Society, Pondicherry Citizens Action Network, Holistic Approach For People’s Empowerment, Shuddham, Centre For Environment And Agricultural Development etc,. This research paper outlines the important role that can be played by non-governmental organizations in helping to try to deal with environmental issues in puducherry region