Sustainable development is defined as development that meets the need of the present generation without compromising the ability of the future generation to meet their own needs. Since past development has come at a heavy price, India must consciously choose this path to address the adverse consequences on the environment.

Key steps involve the promotion of natural resources alongside their conservation. It is essential to preserve the regenerative capacity of the ecological system to ensure resources are not exhausted. Furthermore, development must focus on avoiding the imposition of environmental risks on future generations to maintain inter-generational equity.

India faces specific threats that must be addressed to achieve sustainability. These include the threat of poverty induced environmental degradation and the threat of pollution from affluence and a rapidly growing industrial sector. Mitigating the stress caused by population explosion and affluent consumption is necessary.

Finally, global frameworks provide direction. In 2015, the UN formulated 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) intended to be achieved by the year 2030. Following these goals helps guide the necessary measures to safeguard the environment while pursuing economic growth.