No change in India's political perception regarding development at the cost of environmental degradation

By Shankar Sharma*

In June 2024, the UN Secretary General issued a stark warning on the occasion of World Environment Day, stating, “...the battle to secure the planet's future will be won or lost in the next 18 months.” This proclamation highlights the pressing need for immediate action as the global scientific community signals a critical juncture in addressing environmental degradation, underscored by an ongoing climate emergency.

The situation demands a closer examination of our national policies and practices regarding environmental protection. A recent report predicting that New Delhi could see temperature increases of 4.5 degrees Celsius in the next 60 years serves as a sobering reminder of the catastrophic climate impacts we could face unless we implement effective measures now. Regrettably, it appears that successive governments over the past two to three decades have contributed to an alarming deterioration of our environment.

A brief review of the energy sector reveals a trend of policies that could lead to detrimental consequences for future generations. Reports suggest that the Economic Survey forecasts coal will continue to be the backbone of our country's energy system for the next two decades, contrary to the global consensus which advocates for peak greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. New coal mines and power plants are being developed despite significant social and environmental costs.

Further complicating this issue are plans for a large number of nuclear power plants, with Tata Steel reportedly exploring the feasibility of constructing around 200 small modular reactors (SMRs). Unfortunately, there has been little engagement from authorities to address the serious concerns raised by civil society regarding the environmental and social toll of such projects.

The situation is equally troubling regarding hydroelectric power, which is often promoted as a green alternative. The current capacity for ‘on-river pumped storage’ in India stands at 103 GW, with widespread proposals for new dams that raise questions about their necessity and feasibility, as these projects offer much lower energy density compared to fossil fuels.

The relentless exploitation of natural resources is projected to lead to climate catastrophe well before our country’s target for net zero emissions by 2070. Despite repeated warnings from global scientific institutions, such as the UNEP, WHO, and IPCC, biodiversity in India continues to face mounting threats. Forest and tree cover has dwindled to approximately 21% of the total land area, falling short of the national policy target of 33%.

Responsibility now lies with civil society to advocate for a comprehensive review of our development model

Statements from ecological scientists emphasize the connection between biodiversity loss and critical societal issues like poverty, food security, and human health. The deterioration of natural ecosystems jeopardizes our long-term survival and prosperity. If there is no change in political perception regarding development at the cost of environmental degradation, further reductions in protected areas will only exacerbate community disasters, emphasizing the urgent need to reassess our relationship with natural resources.

With the government seemingly disengaged from a sustainable approach, the responsibility now lies with civil society to advocate for a comprehensive review of our development model, prioritizing the welfare of our communities alongside environmental sustainability. Various international initiatives showcase potential pathways for a green and sustainable energy transition.

For instance, regions such as Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat are emerging leaders in battery energy storage solutions, suggesting a promising direction for India to optimize its renewable energy resources without relying heavily on traditional coal and pumped storage plants. In conclusion, it is imperative that we address our consumption and energy demands at a global level to ensure the survival and welfare of our communities.

Engaging with leaders and the broader public on this agenda is crucial. We must explore actionable steps both individually and collectively to steer our country toward a sustainable future.

---

*Power & Climate Policy Analyst, Karnataka

Comments

Clive Lloyd legacy reminds us of the golden era that reshaped cricket

By Harsh Thakor* As August 31 marked the 80th birthday of cricketing icon Clive Lloyd, it also heralds the impending 50th anniversary of his ascension to the captaincy of the West Indies team. Under his leadership, a collection of extraordinary talents coalesced to create one of the most formidable teams in cricket history. The roots of West Indian cricket dominance trace back to a colonial past.

A Hindu alternative to Valentine's Day? 'Shiv-Parvati was first love marriage in Universe'

By Rajiv Shah* The other day, I was searching on Google a quote on Maha Shivratri which I wanted to send to someone, a confirmed Shiv Bhakt, quite close to me -- with an underlying message to act positively instead of being negative. On top of the search, I chanced upon an article in, imagine!, a Nashik Corporation site which offered me something very unusual.

Impact of water anxiety, stress and trauma on women: World Water Week 2024 talkshow

By Mansee Bal Bhargava, Durga Das, Garbhit Naik, Sromona Burman* A newly formed no bet-for-profit organization, WODER , dedicated and motivated to work towards water security for all for all the time, was at the World Water Week (WWW) 2024 organized by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) from August 25 to 29th. The WWW2024 theme was, ‘Bridging Borders: Water for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future’ and centered around water cooperation for peace and security. The event underscored the collaborative effort needed to achieve a peaceful and sustainable future.

Swami Vivekananda's views on caste and sexuality were 'painfully' regressive

By Bhaskar Sur* Swami Vivekananda now belongs more to the modern Hindu mythology than reality. It makes a daunting job to discover the real human being who knew unemployment, humiliation of losing a teaching job for 'incompetence', longed in vain for the bliss of a happy conjugal life only to suffer the consequent frustration.

Trailblazer in literary innovation, critic of Indian mythology, including Ramayana

By Harsh Thakor* Ranganayakamma, commonly known as RN, stands out as a transformative figure in promoting Marxist thought, democratic ideals, and anti-caste principles through her remarkably clear and engaging writing style. A trailblazer in literary innovation, her works span a broad array of topics, from critiques of Indian mythology and revivalism to discussions on civil liberties, the Indian Communist Movement, and Maoism in China.

Will Bangladesh go Egypt way, where military ruler is in power for a decade?

By Vijay Prashad* The day after former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left Dhaka, I was on the phone with a friend who had spent some time on the streets that day. He told me about the atmosphere in Dhaka, how people with little previous political experience had joined in the large protests alongside the students—who seemed to be leading the agitation. I asked him about the political infrastructure of the students and about their political orientation. He said that the protests seemed well-organized and that the students had escalated their demands from an end to certain quotas for government jobs to an end to the government of Sheikh Hasina. Even hours before she left the country, it did not seem that this would be the outcome.

Unwavering source of ideological inspiration in politics, life: Personal tribute to Yechury

By Bhabani Shankar Nayak Sitaram Yechury was everyone's comrade. He lived his life in public like an open book of praxis. Everyone was familiar with his family background, student life, many talents, achievements, and political journey that defines his everyday life as a committed communist.

'Void in Leftist landscape': Loss of Sitaram Yechury who had helped form INDIA bloc

By Vikas Meshram* The passing of Sitaram Yechury has cast a profound stillness over leftist organizations across India. Renowned as a distinguished politician, columnist, economist, and social activist, Yechury was a staunch advocate for student rights and movements. His leadership skills became apparent early in his academic career, as he was elected three times as the president of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). Yechury also endured imprisonment during the Emergency period, underscoring his commitment to political activism.

Narmada valley again facing flood disaster, exacerbated by Sardar Sarovar dam 'mismanagement'

By Our Representative The environmental advocacy group South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP) has issued a warning , supported by detailed diagrams, that the Sardar Sarovar Dam (SSD) is at risk of causing flash floods in the Narmada Valley this year, similar to incidents that occurred last year.

Search This Blog