India’s environmental movement is unique because of its deep connection to social justice, indigenous rights, and grassroots activism. Unlike purely conservation-focused movements, many Indian efforts combine scientific inquiry, strong legislation with the protection of livelihoods and local cultures. It is a widely held view that conservation must work in harmony with the needs of local communities. India’s conservation efforts do face huge challenges due to rapid industrialization, infrastructure development, and conflicts with local communities. Scientific and social leadership in conservation has also strongly advocated an approach to ecology, equity, and social justice and this is what sets India’s environmental movement apart globally. In this episode, we hear from some of its stalwarts. Featuring the voices of Professor Madhav Gadgil, Dr Ravi Chopra, Dr Yellappa Reddy, Dr Kamal Bawa. This is a mini series from Grassroots Nation that presents some of the key themes that have arisen in our conversations with some of India’s greatest social leaders. Each episode will explore a set of ideas: from watershed moments in India’s history that have left lasting impressions, to reflections on how their personal philosophies took shape and how they see their work contributing to the larger efforts of nation building. This is the third of six episodes that present important themes that have arisen in the conversations with the guests of Grassroots Nation. These episodes showcase what shaped their thinking, their relationships, and how small acts form the basis of collective action. Grassroots Nation is a podcast from Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. For more information go to www.rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org or join the conversation on social media @RNP_foundation.