National Paper Presentation on Environmental Law: “Constitutional Imperatives for Sustainable Development – Emerging Challenges and Legal Responses”
Background and Rationale:
The Indian Constitution embodies a profound commitment to environmental protection through Directive Principles (Article 48A) and Fundamental Duties (Article 51A(g)), interpreted expansively by the Supreme Court and High Courts to include the right to a clean and healthy environment under Article 21. On Constitution Day, INBA’s annual International Conference and Awards provide a fitting platform to engage the next generation of legal professionals in addressing pressing environmental challenges. This paper presentation invites law students to critically examine the interplay between constitutional values, statutory frameworks, judicial activism, and contemporary policy issues in environmental governance. It promotes research on balancing economic development with ecological sustainability, aligning with India’s net-zero ambitions and global commitments.
Objectives:
- Foster academic research and discourse among law students on trending environmental law topics.
- Highlight legal gaps, enforcement challenges, and innovative solutions in areas like climate change, waste management, biodiversity, and green transitions.
- Encourage interdisciplinary analysis integrating constitutional law, environmental statutes, and policy.
- Recognize outstanding student contributions through awards/certificates, promoting excellence in environmental jurisprudence.
- Contribute to policy dialogue ahead of INBA’s broader conference events.
Topics:
- Forest Rights Act vs. Development Projects: Legal Conflicts in Tribal Areas and Linear Infrastructure: Analyze tensions between FRA, 2006 community rights, Forest (Conservation) Act amendments, and projects like highways/mining. Include Gram Sabha consent, displacement, and judicial interventions.
OR
- Climate Change as a Fundamental Right: Judicial Evolution and the Need for Comprehensive Climate Legislation in India: Discuss Supreme Court recognition of the right to be free from adverse climate effects (linked to Article 21), the role of precautionary/sustainable development principles, gaps in fragmented policies, and proposals for umbrella climate law to meet ne-zero 2070 goals.
Original, unpublished papers preferred.
Eligibility:
- Law students (undergraduate/LL.B., postgraduate/LL.M) from recognized Indian institutions.
- Individual papers (No Co-Authorship is allowed).
Submission Guidelines:
- Abstract (300-500 words) + 3-5 keywords.
- A4 size paper (3000-6000 words, excluding footnotes) in Times New Roman, 12 pt, 1.5 spacing, Bluebook 21st edition citations.
- Format: MS Word; plagiarism between 8-10%.
- Email submissions to events@indianbarassociation.org
- Shortlisting based on originality, legal depth, relevance, and structure.
- The paper should have the name, course, year, college, and e-mail of the author.
Presentation Format:
- Shortlisted students will present live (10-12 minutes + 3-5 minutes Q&A) on 26th November 2026.
- Evaluation criteria: Content quality, legal analysis, presentation skills, and Q&A handling.
- Top 3 papers will be awarded and will get an appreciation certificate on 26th November 2026.
- Participation certificates to all the Authors.
- All the Participants can come and attend the event.
Expected Outcomes:
- Enhanced student engagement in environmental law.
- Compilation of research insights for policymakers and practitioners.
- Reinforcement of constitutional environmentalism on Constitution Day.
Important Dates:
- Abstract deadline: 15th October 2026
- Full paper deadline: 1st November 2026
- Event: 26th November 2026
Registration Process:
- Interested students can participate by sending us email on events@indianbarassociation.org
- Registration Fee for Single Author is INR 800 (No Co-Authorship is allowed)
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