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. 

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*Power & Climate Policy Analyst, Karnataka