The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role is a 20th-century article addressing the growing environmental concerns, including deforestation, land degradation, and overpopulation. It was written by Nani Palkhivala (1920–2002), an Indian jurist and economist. Originally published in The Indian Express, the article appeared in 1994, highlighting the urgency of environmental conservation and the significance of the Green Movement in protecting the planet

The article was written in response to growing global concerns such as deforestation, land degradation, and rapid population growth. It examines these environmental challenges and explores structured approaches to address them. Palkhivala references Copernicus’ heliocentric theory to emphasize humanity’s evolving understanding of its place in the world, drawing a parallel to the need for a shift in perspective regarding environmental responsibility. The article also discusses the Brundtland Commission’s concept of sustainable development, which advocates for balancing economic progress with ecological preservation.

Nani Palkhivala wrote the article while working as a journalist for The Indian Express and used the platform to convey his environmental concerns to the Indian public. Since the article was published in India, it received limited international recognition. However, over time, its impact grew, and it was widely appreciated for its insightful analysis and urgent warnings about environmental degradation. The article resonated particularly with Indian society, where issues such as deforestation, land degradation, and overpopulation were (and remain) pressing challenges.

Nani Palkhivala begins by highlighting the growing influence of the Green Movement, which emerged around 25 years ago. He notes that the world’s first nationwide Green Party was established in New Zealand in 1972, marking a significant step toward environmental awareness and activism. The movement has gained widespread recognition and success, playing a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and environmental policies worldwide.

The article further draws attention to the deteriorating condition of Earth, portraying it as an ailing (sick, literally) planet suffering from the consequences of human exploitation and reckless resource use. It emphasizes how industrialisation, deforestation, and overpopulation have led to an imbalance in nature, pushing the planet toward an environmental crisis. Palkhivala urges for immediate corrective measures, advocating for a shift towards sustainable development and responsible stewardship of natural resources to restore ecological balance.

As the discussion unfolds, the article highlights the major causes of environmental decline such deforestation, land degradation, pollution, and overpopulation. It also argues that large-scale deforestation, driven by industrial expansion and urbanization, has led to the destruction of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of climate patterns. Similarly, excessive use of land for agriculture and industrial activities also has resulted in soil erosion, reducing the planet’s sustainability and habitat. Pollution, both air and water, is another key concern that was explained in article, with industries and human activities releasing toxic substances into the environment, further making the planet condition much worse.

The Green Movement, which happened during 1972 and gained a huge popularity among farmers and rural population. This movement played a greater role in spreading awareness about environmental conservation and influencing government policies worldwide. Another significant point raised in the article is the impact of overpopulation on environmental resources. The growing human population, especially in developing nations, has put immense pressure on land, water, and energy sources. Without population control and sustainable resource management, the strain on the Earth will continue to intensify.

A key concept explored in the article is about sustainable development, which was introduced in 1987 by the Brundtland Commission. Sustainable development aims to balance economic progress with ecological responsibility, ensuring that future generations inherit a planet capable of sustaining life. The famous dilemmas of sustainable development are (i)Futurity principal, (ii)Environmental principle (iii)Equity principle etc. Industries and governments must adopt eco-friendly policies rather than prioritizing short-term economic gains over long-term environmental stability.

The Nani also uses a very clever and humorous example to highlight a harsh reality about human impact on the planet. He mentions a zoo in Zambia where a cage labeled "The World's Most Dangerous Animal" contains only a mirror, which was not actually connected to any real event. This simple yet powerful message suggests that humans, not wild animals, are the biggest threat to the environment. By including this example, Palkhivala points to a deeper issue—humans have learned to dominate nature rather than live in harmony with it. Instead of seeing themselves as part of the natural world, they have exploited it for their own benefit. This observation adds weight to the article’s central argument: that humans must change their approach and take responsibility for protecting the planet.

It was also highlighted that as the population increases, the demand for food, water, energy, and land rises, often at the cost of environmental stability. He gave the reason that as the population increases the need for shelter, agriculture land etc. leads to mass deforestation and over polluting the land. This is also an issue where the thoughts goes into more children means more employement but He argues that the if not handles correctly more popuation means more people with unemployment and poverty. Through this example he hints that with large population the government must enhance its employment ratio and aware its people about future outcomes of this high fertility.

Palkhivala argues that the causes overpopulation are primarily driven by lack of awareness, poverty, and inexperience (particularly among the common people in India). According to him the most effective way to address this issue is not just through traditional contraceptive methods but by improving education and increasing employment opportunities. Knowledge and stable life are best contraception to reduce the overpopulation issue.

Further, article highlights the vast diversity of life on Earth, noting that millions of species remain languish and are uncatalogued. References to Lester R. Brown’s book, "The Golden Economic Prospect," is given to emphasize growing ecological concerns. Brown identifies four principal biological systems—fisheries, forests, grasslands, and croplands—as the backbone of the global economy. These systems are very crucial as they are the only resources for raw materials for industries and for daily life of country's population. The depletion of these biological systems due to overuse and mismanagement poses a serious threat to both the environment and economic stability, reinforcing the need for sustainable resource management.

In the concluding paragraphs, the article shifts focus toward the concept of sustainable development and its potential to create a truly balanced world—both for the planet and its people. Palkhivala revisits the idea of a "holistic view" of existence, emphasizing that humanity has entered an "Era of Responsibility." He stresses the importance of viewing the world as an interconnected whole rather than a fragmented collection of parts.

The article underscores the role of industry in this responsibility, stating that environmental excellence is no longer optional but essential for manufacturers to sustain their existence. Businesses and economies must integrate eco-friendly practices to ensure long-term survival.

Palkhivala reinforces the idea that Earth is not just a resource for the present generation but also a legacy for future generations. He urges humanity to recognize its duty toward the planet and abandon the mindset of treating nature as mere property to be exploited. The article ultimately serves as a call to action, advocating for collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment for the well-being of all life.

The article concludes with the beautiful lines of Mr. Lester Brown, “We have not inherited this earth from our forefathers; we have borrowed it from our children.

The given article is a short history about the Nani Palkhivala, for a full biography click here.

Nani Palkhivala was born on January 16, 1920, in Bombay (now Mumbai), India, into a middle-class Parsi family. Despite facing early struggles with speech and language difficulties, he displayed remarkable intellect and perseverance. His early education was at Master’s Tutorial High School in Bombay, where he developed a keen interest in academics. He later joined St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, where he pursued a Master’s degree in English literature. However, his life took a different turn when he enrolled in Government Law College, Mumbai, where he excelled in legal studies.

After graduating, Palkhivala joined the chambers of Sir Jamshedji Behramji Kanga, a prominent lawyer. Under Kanga’s mentorship, Palkhivala honed his legal acumen and soon gained recognition for his sharp analytical skills and eloquence. His deep understanding of constitutional law and his ability to argue complex cases with clarity made him a rising star in the legal profession. His early work in tax law established him as an expert in the field, and he became widely respected for his knowledge and interpretation of economic and financial regulations.

Palkhivala gained national prominence in the 1950s and 1960s when he was involved in several landmark cases concerning constitutional law. He was a staunch defender of civil liberties and democratic principles, and his arguments in court reflected his deep commitment to individual rights and the rule of law. One of his most significant contributions was his role in the Kesavananda Bharati case in 1973, in which he successfully argued against the unlimited power of Parliament to amend the Constitution. This case led to the establishment of the “Basic Structure Doctrine,” which prevents the government from altering the fundamental principles of the Indian Constitution. This landmark judgment is considered a cornerstone of Indian constitutional law.

Apart from being a celebrated lawyer, Palkhivala was also an eloquent orator and a prolific writer. His annual budget speeches, where he analyzed the Union Budget with remarkable insight and clarity, drew large audiences and were widely anticipated. His speeches, delivered in simple yet powerful language, made complex economic and legal topics accessible to the common man. He also authored several books, including The Law and Practice of Income Tax, which became a standard reference for tax law in India. Another notable work, We, the People, reflected his deep concerns about democracy, governance, and constitutional values.

Palkhivala’s contributions were not limited to law and economics. He was deeply concerned about social issues, governance, and environmental sustainability. He served as India’s Ambassador to the United States from 1977 to 1979, where he played a key role in strengthening Indo-American relations. Throughout his life, he advocated for economic liberalization, arguing that excessive government control stifled growth and development. His vision for India was one of economic freedom, constitutional integrity, and social justice.

Despite his immense success, Palkhivala remained a humble and principled individual. He declined offers of high political office and chose to remain independent, focusing on his work as a jurist, writer, and public intellectual. As he aged, his health declined, and he gradually withdrew from public life. He passed away on December 11, 2002, leaving behind a rich legacy of legal brilliance, intellectual integrity, and unwavering dedication to democratic principles.

Nani Palkhivala’s life remains an inspiration for generations of lawyers, economists, and policymakers. His contributions to Indian jurisprudence, economic thought, and public discourse continue to shape the nation’s legal and political landscape. His commitment to constitutional democracy and individual freedoms ensures that his legacy endures as a guiding force in India’s legal and intellectual history.

The impact of the article on Nani Palkhivala extends far beyond a mere recounting of his life and achievements. It serves as a powerful reminder of the role that intellect, integrity, and moral courage play in shaping the course of a nation. By delving into his legal battles, particularly his role in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case, the article brings to the forefront the delicate balance between legislative power and constitutional principles. It reinforces the enduring significance of the Basic Structure Doctrine, a safeguard against authoritarianism and an affirmation of the Indian Constitution’s democratic foundations.

But Palkhivala was not just a towering legal mind; he was also a visionary economist, deeply invested in the progress of India. The article highlights his steadfast belief in free enterprise, economic liberalization, and the dangers of excessive government control. At a time when India was struggling under the weight of the License Raj, Palkhivala’s voice stood out as one of reason and foresight, warning against the perils of over-regulation and advocating for policies that would eventually guide India toward economic reform. His annual budget speeches, attended by thousands, underscored his unique ability to translate complex economic policies into language that the common citizen could understand—an ability that remains rare even today.

Beyond law and economics, the article captures Palkhivala’s deeper philosophical commitment to justice, fairness, and individual liberty. His life was not simply a career in advocacy or policy; it was a testament to the power of clear thinking, disciplined argument, and an unshakable belief in democratic ideals. The impact of such an article lies in its ability to rekindle interest in his legacy, encouraging both scholars and ordinary citizens to engage with the principles he championed. It challenges readers to reflect on the continued relevance of his ideas in today’s political and economic climate, where questions of governance, constitutional integrity, and individual freedoms remain as pressing as ever.

Ultimately, the article does more than just document history; it compels its readers to consider how individuals like Palkhivala shape the moral and intellectual fabric of a nation. It is a call to recognize and uphold the values he stood for—reason over rhetoric, principle over expedience, and the relentless pursuit of truth in the service of justice.

An academic book on this article (copyright) : NCERT Hornbill, CH_4

Side Article : Englisheclat