How is India's growth story guided by green principles?
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Synopsis
India's development model intertwines economic growth with ecological responsibility, as highlighted by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav at the Global Sustainability Summit. He emphasizes sustainability as a lifestyle, urging nations to adopt comprehensive, green-focused strategies for a resilient future.
Key Takeaways
- India's development is focused on sustainability and ecological balance.
- New regulations aim to enhance environmental auditing and transparency.
- The Green Credit Programme encourages private involvement in environmental stewardship.
- Critical minerals identified under the new mission are key to economic security.
- Collaboration among nations is essential for sustainable growth.
New Delhi, Sep 2 (NationPress) Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav emphasized on Tuesday that India's developmental framework is intricately linked to achieving a harmony between economic advancement and environmental stewardship.
While addressing the 20th Global Sustainability Summit, Yadav remarked, “Sustainability should not merely be seen as a goal or an objective. I view it as a lifestyle choice, an ever-evolving commitment to being resilient, regenerative, and responsible.”
The Minister pointed out that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Environment Ministry has recently implemented crucial notifications aimed at fostering a sustainable future.
Yadav also acknowledged the current global trade tensions, policy uncertainties, geopolitical disputes, and the challenges posed to global financial investments by major economies, all of which contribute to a precarious environment.
He urged all nations to embed sustainability into the core of growth by adopting economy-wide strategies that include circular economy models, nature-positive actions, green manufacturing, and encouraging behavioral changes towards responsible practices.
On August 29, the government introduced the Environment Audit Rules, 2025, establishing a formal framework for environmental auditing nationwide.
According to a statement, these rules set up a two-tiered system of auditors and create a dedicated agency to ensure transparency throughout the process.
“These regulations are intended to complement the existing government monitoring and inspection framework, not to replace it,” Yadav emphasized.
Moreover, he announced that a revised methodology for the Green Credit Programme was also notified on August 29.
Initially launched in October 2023 to promote voluntary environmental action, this program has been enhanced to facilitate direct involvement from private entities, establish minimum restoration commitments, mobilize private capital for climate initiatives, and utilize Earned Green Credits.
The updated methodology aims to transform the Green Credit Programme into a driving force for substantial eco-restoration, the Minister clarified.
Yadav also noted that on August 31, the Ministry revised the Forest (Conservation and Augmentation) Rules, 2023 to support the objectives of self-reliance in the Critical Mineral sector under the newly initiated National Critical Mineral Mission, 2025.
This mission identifies 24 minerals as critical and strategic, while 29 others are recognized as vital for enhancing the nation’s economy and security, he noted.
The amended rules streamline the approval process for mining these minerals in forested regions for both public and private entities.
Point of View
It’s vital to recognize that India’s approach to sustainable development, as articulated by Minister Yadav, reflects a growing global trend towards integrating environmental considerations into economic planning. This dual focus not only supports ecological balance but also positions India as a leader in global sustainability efforts. The initiatives outlined are significant steps toward achieving a resilient and responsible growth model.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Environment Audit Rules, 2025?
The Environment Audit Rules, 2025 establish a formal framework for environmental auditing across India, enhancing transparency and accountability in environmental practices.
What is the Green Credit Programme?
The Green Credit Programme encourages voluntary environmental action, allowing private entities to participate directly and mobilizing resources for climate initiatives.
How does the National Critical Mineral Mission contribute to India's economy?
The National Critical Mineral Mission identifies essential minerals that are crucial for economic growth and national security, streamlining the mining approval process.
