Gender and Ecology: Spiritual and Cultural Elements of Indigenous Eco-feministic Thought

This paper is an outcome of feminist research which emphasizes the role of women in environmental conservation in the Himalayan region. The argument focuses on issues such as women?s viewpoint on the environment; the nature of their involvement and their inspirations to engage in conservation of ecology; challenges faced and solutions evolved to protect the environment. The paper further maintains that because of the traditional duties enforced by the patriarchal system on women, they are directly affected by ecological changes. However, the traditional wisdom which they have acquired over the years is helping them in emerging as the true custodians of resources. The paper explores the spiritual elements hidden in the traditional eco-feministic thought that have contributed to the sustenance of mountain communities. Since the global environment is undergoing transition, hence there is a need of percolating deep to understand and implement the traditional way of resource management.