Environmental Doctrines of Jainism

Author(s): S M Jain
Publisher: S M Jain

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CONCLUSION
The description of cyclic changes, various succession or retrogression stages and best happiest stage and also of sustainability of a particular desired stage in Jain Scriptures is not a mere conjecture but a scientifically researched, established and documented phenomenon operating in numerous eco-systems in nature. Mankind on planet earth at present is in fifth unhappy (Dukhma) stage and if it does not take appropriate steps will plunge in further sad most unhappy stage. Conversely it can also stop further degradation and reverse the process of retrogression to progressive to any good, better and even best stage. It is in our hands and we can certainly do it. Rays of hope have already started emanating and may intensify and reduce the damage and degradation inflicted by mankind itself. Mankind alone can cure it, improve it, and redeem it.
"अंतं करति दुक्खाणं, इहमेगेसि-माहिय । Teri yu palfi, GOCÈSE WRITI 115/17 11"
- Sutrakritanga "Mankind alone can end sorrows and suffering. Human beings are highest and best of all life-forms and at the top ladder of evolution"
The scenario as of now and evolving in the same way is dismal. The continuing degradation of environment and depletion of lifesupporting natural resources due to exploding population and its reckless consumerism beset with dire consequences are matters of serious concern. The air we breathe, the water we drink and the soil that produces our food are getting more and more polluted. In many cities and towns air is so much polluted by vehicular and industrial emissions that people require masks and even artificial oxygen intake. Water in most of the rivers and other surface and underground water bodies is so dangerously polluted by industrial and household effluents that it is not even safe for bathing, much less for drinking. Within last five decades the requirement of water has increased so much that its per capita availability is reduced one third from 6000 cum to 2200 cum just little above the critical limit of 1700 cum. Because of over exploitation the underground water table in many areas has receded from few meters to a few hundred meters and even completely exhausted, turning the areas into dark zones. Seas too are getting highly polluted affecting the health and survival of fish, corals, shells and its entire ecosystem. Even the health and productivity of soil is being badly affected by indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and poisonous pesticides that enter human system, through food chain with biological magnification, causing incurable diseases.
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ENVIRONMENTAL. DICTRINES OF JAINISM
CONCLUSION
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