Abstract

Abstract: The present study investigates the level of awareness of ecological intelligence among higher secondary school students in Varanasi city, India. Ecological intelligence, a concept introduced by Daniel Goleman, refers to the human capacity to understand the environmental impact of our actions and to behave in ways that minimize ecological harm. Against the backdrop of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the integration of environmental education across curricula, this research assumes significance. Employing a descriptive survey method, data were collected from a sample of 100 higher secondary school students selected through simple random sampling. A self-designed questionnaire, "Questionnaire for Ecological Intelligence," was developed and validated by the researcher. The tool assessed five key components: knowledge, awareness and sensitivity, attitude, skills, and participation. The reliability of the instrument was established using the test-retest method, yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.79. The findings reveal a promising yet varied landscape of ecological intelligence among students. While a significant majority (68%) demonstrated a high level of awareness and sensitivity towards environmental issues, their knowledge base showed considerable variation. Many students possess theoretical knowledge, but the development of practical skills and active participation in environmental activities require further strengthening. The study concludes that while policy frameworks like NEP 2020 have positively influenced student awareness, there is a critical need to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application. Enhancing hands-on learning experiences and community-based environmental projects is essential for fostering deeper ecological intelligence and responsible environmental citizenship among the youth.