From Crisis To Cure

Oxford University Press (OUP) announced the release of the fourth edition of the best-selling book, "Environmental Studies: From Crisis to Cure," by Professor R. Rajagopalan. The new edition aligns with the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines and curriculum framework for environmental education in 2023. The book is a response to the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to transform how students perceive and engage with environmental issues.

The fourth edition places a strong emphasis on climate change, recognising it as the most pressing challenge of our time. It incorporates fresh content on subjects like climate adaptation, the circular economy, disaster management, and the government's 'Lifestyle for the Environment' (LIFE) movement, which promotes environmental awareness.

Sumanta Datta, Managing Director of OUP India, expressed OUP's commitment to raising awareness about social and environmental issues worldwide. The book is aligned with the mission of 'Lifestyle for Environment' (LIFE), as advocated by the Hon'ble Prime Minister, serving as a catalyst for individual and collective action in safeguarding and conserving the environment.

This updated edition, released by University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Jagadesh Kumar, utilizes over 80 real-life case studies from India and around the world to illustrate a range of environmental issues, solutions, successes, and failures.

In line with the guidelines of NEP 2020, the book employs the Socratic method in a question-and-answer format as its main text. It also guides students on how they can make a positive impact on the environment through group projects, initiating their own organisations, and undertaking personal initiatives.

In June 2023, the UGC issued guidelines and a curriculum framework for environmental education in undergraduate courses, making it mandatory for all undergraduate programmes in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to include this course. The guidelines aim to sensitise students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds to India's commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and addressing global environmental challenges.