Modi's governance agenda: No fear of green hurdles on path of progress

The Times of India , Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Correspondent : TNN
NEW DELHI: Sending out a positive signal to industry and the infrastructure sector, President Pranab Mukherjee made it clear that green clearances would not come in the way of the country's high growth path as his government would look to achieve twin goals of environmental conservation and development objectives.

Stating that the new government strongly believes "environmental conservation can go hand in hand with development", Mukherjee said, "To achieve this, environment and forest clearance systems will be made more predictable, transparent and time-bound. Simultaneously, an effective system will be developed for sound appraisal processes and strict compliance of clearance conditions, especially those relating to rehabilitation of displaced communities and regeneration of forests."

His remarks came four days after the environment ministry made its online system for 'green' clearance operational while assuring that a similar system will be launched for 'forest' clearance soon. The system of 'green' clearance will go fully online from July 1.

Issues relating to green clearance were major irritants during the UPA government when even a number of defence projects could not get the environment ministry's nod.

The new government's intent on green clearance has been time and again reiterated by environment minister Prakash Javadekar since he took charge on May 29.

Javadekar said on Monday, "We look forward to innovative and scientific solutions for development and environmental protection... We are taking decision to give environmental clearances to defence strategic projects on merit basis."

He said his ministry, to begin with, would give clearances to Indian Navy infrastructure project in Karwar (Phase-II), Karnataka and a radar project in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

The President emphasized on sustainable development, saying his government would keep sustainability at the core of its planning process.

Outlining the vision of the new government, the President said it will earnestly take up mitigation works to meet the challenges posed by climate change and will closely work with the global community. "Cleaner fuels will be promoted to bring down pollution levels in our cities," he said.

His statement assumes significance in the wake of various global reports suggesting that air in Indian cities including Delhi are the dirtiest in the world.

The President also said steps will be taken for conservation of Himalayan ecology and regeneration of forests. "Conservation of Himalayan ecology will be a priority area for my government. A National Mission on Himalayas will be launched," he said.

Reiterating the government's commitment to ensure clean and smooth flow of river Ganga, he said, "River Ganga is part of our rich cultural heritage, a symbol of faith and the lifeline for millions. However, Ganga continues to remain polluted with many stretches of the river becoming dry in lean season. My government will take all necessary steps to ensure a perennial, clean and pristine Ganga."

 
SOURCE : http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Modis-governance-agenda-No-fear-of-green-hurdles-on-path-of-progress/articleshow/36319750.cms?
 


Back to pevious page



The NetworkAbout Us  |  Our Partners  |  Concepts   
Resources :  Databases  |  Publications  |  Media Guide  |  Suggested Links
Happenings :  News  |  Events  |  Opinion Polls  |  Case Studies
Contact :  Guest Book  |  FAQs |  Email Us