Environmental Challenges in India: Key Issues and Proposed Solutions

Role of the Aravalli Range

The Aravalli range is crucial for Indian geography, acting as a barrier to desertification, a protector of historical forts, and a spiritual cradle. However, recent government policies threaten its existence by allowing illegal mining in areas below a 100-meter elevation, putting 90% of the range at risk.

Environmental Degradation in Urban Areas

• Delhi's air pollution has become an annual issue, with smog causing significant health problems.
• Research estimates 34,000 deaths annually due to pollution in just 10 cities.
• Groundwater contamination is severe, with 13%-15% of samples in Delhi showing uranium beyond safe limits, and even worse levels in Punjab and Haryana.

Government Policy and Environmental Negligence

The Indian government has displayed a tendency to ignore environmental concerns in policymaking. Key legislative changes have diluted environmental protections:

• The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023 eased restrictions on forest land use.
• The Draft Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) notification 2020 reduced public hearings and compliance requirements.
• The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification 2018 allowed more construction in sensitive coastal areas.

Political and Economic Influences

Environmental clearances and policy shifts have been influenced by corporate donations, raising questions about the integrity of policymaking.

Conflict Between Environment and Local Communities

The government has sometimes blamed local communities for environmental issues, such as attributing forest cover loss to the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006. The eviction of families from tiger reserves further illustrates this conflict.

Proposed Solutions for Environmental Protection

• Cease planned deforestation in key areas like Great Nicobar and Hasdeo Aranya.
• Crackdown on illegal mining in eco-sensitive regions.
• Reassess laws and policy changes from the past decade that harm the environment.
• Restore the National Green Tribunal to its full capacity.
• Promote inter-governmental coordination and cooperative federalism for environmental issues.

Guiding Principles for Future Policies

India's environmental policies should be guided by the rule of law, collaboration with local communities, and recognition of the link between the environment and human development. Such a worldview is essential for building a sustainable future.