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Paper short abstract:

This paper proposes the active use of boundary object tools to enhance participatory governance in addressing wicked problems, particularly environmental challenges, within the Indian policy process.

Paper long abstract:

India’s environmental policy has evolved significantly. Despite progress, challenges such as bureaucratic inertia, policy implementation gaps, and inadequate community engagement persist, limiting the effectiveness of environmental governance. The 1990s marked a shift toward participatory governance catalyzed by grassroots movements like the Chipko Movement and judicial interventions that emphasized community involvement in environmental conservation. However, barriers such as socio-cultural exclusions, political interference, and capacity gaps at the local level continue to undermine these participatory efforts.

Boundary objects—tools, concepts, or practices that foster collaboration across diverse stakeholders—have emerged as essential facilitators of inclusive governance. Examples include participatory maps and gender-sensitive frameworks, which enable knowledge exchange, co-creation, and alignment of diverse stakeholder goals. Boundary objects bridge gaps between national policies and local realities. They offer a flexible yet structured approach to sustainable governance.

Case studies illustrate their potential: the West Bengal participatory forest management initiative transformed forests into shared resources, aligning conservation goals with community livelihoods. The Sukhomajri watershed project employed check dams and benefit-sharing agreements to unify ecological and economic objectives, fostering trust and cooperation. These tools integrated traditional knowledge with scientific frameworks to ensure equitable conservation outcomes.

To address wicked problems such as climate change and biodiversity loss, this paper advocates for strategically incorporating boundary objects into India’s environmental governance frameworks. These tools foster collaboration, enhance adaptability, and support long-term sustainability. Participatory governance facilitated by boundary objects offers a promising pathway for policy development. Such that the policies are responsive to diverse stakeholder needs and remain grounded in local contexts.