Critical Analysis of India's Environmental Policy and the Degradation of the Aravalli Range
This analysis highlights the severe environmental degradation in India, specifically focusing on the Aravalli range and rising pollution levels. It criticizes recent legislative changes, such as the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023 and the Draft EIA Notification 2020, for easing clearances for industrial projects at the cost of ecological health. The article notes high levels of uranium contamination in Delhi's groundwater and the weakening of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). It calls for a 'new deal for the environment' involving better coordination between the Centre and States through cooperative federalism and a whole-of-government approach to pollution.
Key Points
- The Aravalli range is facing desertification and illegal mining due to relaxed government regulations and height limit exemptions.
- Recent amendments to the Forest (Conservation) Act and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules are seen as undermining environmental protection.
- Groundwater in Delhi and Punjab shows uranium contamination levels significantly above permissible limits for human consumption.
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has been weakened by vacancies and reduced independence from government pressure.
Exam Facts
- Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023 exempted large categories of land from forest clearance rules.
- Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) reported 13-15% of tested samples in Delhi contain uranium beyond limits.
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) is the primary initiative for air quality management in India.
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