Stating that scientific facts clearly
indicate that pollution has an impact on human health, well-being and has
long-term implications on Sustainable Development Goals, Union Minister of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan has said that a healthy environment is
necessary for eradicating poverty. The Minister also added that the legitimate
priority and needs of developing countries and their rights to equitable access to
sustainable development for the achievement of sustained economic growth and
social progress need to be taken into account. Delivering the National Statement on the second day of the
three-day 3rd United Nations Environment Assembly in Nairobi today,
Dr. Harsh Vardhan reaffirmed India’s commitment to put forward a healthy and
sustainable way of living, based on traditional values of conservation and
optimal utilization of resources. “Towards A Pollution Free Planet” is the theme of the 3rd United Nations Environment
Assembly.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan said that the
contribution of citizens and promoting sustainable lifestyles are important to
achieve a pollution-free planet. He emphasized that India is pursuing ambitious plans and expects action
from other developed and developing countries to fulfill their historical
responsibilities on the basis of equity and Common But Differentiated
Responsibilities, as per the commitments made under the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development and other development agenda. “Protecting mother earth is not
just our political or social obligation but it is our moral responsibility”,
Dr. Harsh Vardhan said.
Recounting various Government initiatives that reflect its
commitment to tackle pollution and health-related issues, the Minister mentioned
Swacchh Bharat Mission to attain the vision of a Clean India by October 2,
2019; National Mission for Clean Ganga Campaign; India’s Nationally Determined
Contributions centre around India’s policies and programmes on promotion of
clean energy, especially renewable energy, enhancement of energy efficiency and
launch of the largest waste-to-energy plant at Narela, Delhi in 2017.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan also
announced that India will host the World Environment Day celebration in 2018.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan making the
Nation Statement at 3rd UN Environment Assembly
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