Legal Framework for Sustainable Development in India: An Analysis of Institutional Integration and Implementation Challenges

Abstract

This paper examines India's legal framework for sustainable development, analyzing the integration of environmental protection with economic development objectives. Through doctrinal legal analysis and comparative policy evaluation, this study investigates how India's constitutional provisions, statutory frameworks, and judicial interpretations collectively address sustainable development imperatives. The research reveals a complex legal architecture that, while comprehensive in scope, faces significant implementation challenges due to institutional fragmentation, enforcement gaps, and conflicting development priorities. Key findings indicate that despite progressive constitutional amendments and robust environmental legislation, India's legal framework requires enhanced coordination mechanisms and strengthened enforcement capabilities to effectively achieve sustainable development goals. The study contributes to understanding the systemic challenges inherent in translating sustainable development principles into operational legal frameworks within developing economies.