Indian Knowledge Systems and the Ethical Foundations of Urban Sustainability

Abstract

We view urban development through quantitative parameters of growth such as boosting the economy and growth in infrastructure, housing, transport services, and land-use models, resulting in efficient cities that are functional to meet the demands of modern times. While achieving these results, the topic of ecological conservation or sustainability is overlooked. The view has dominated western urban planning for ages and is also adopted into Indian urban policies in the post-colonial period. This paper critically examines this phenomenon and argues that these models, grounded in exploitative rationalities, have resulted in ecological degradation, spatial and resource inequality, and a lack of moral responsibility among its people.

This paper then introduces the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and explains how it can address the normative deficits present in current urban policies. Drawing on the primacy of Vedic and post-Vedic concepts such as rta, dharma, and aparigraha, this paper builds a relational ecological urban model. By situating the IKS with dialogue with the current urban and ecological policies, we can propose a balanced urban development in India that is ethically grounded and culturally situated.