Environment, development can go hand in hand: Prasad

Union Minister of Law and Justice Ravi Shankar Prasad while questioning those who try to obstruct development in the name of environmental protection has stressed over allowing them to exist in tandem for sustainable and acceptable model of development. The Minister, at the same time, advocated for stricter implementation of the set rules and procedures.

Speaking at a seminar on ‘Environmental Law and Execution’ organised by ‘Yugantar Bharti’ on Monday, Prasad also referred to rich cultural heritage of the country to drive home his point.

“Take for example building dams which is bound to cause displacements. But why the displaced can’t be given the best support and rehabilitation packages? Roads crossing through forest can be permissible provided the Government ensures planting adequate number of trees to supplement the loss. There is no conflict between environment and development but it should be done with justice that comes in a broader perspective,” said the Minister on Monday.

He also talked about infusion of technology in safeguarding environment and cited examples of solar energy mechanism which is being promoted under the current dispensation while forming ‘solar alliance’ involving over 100 nations.

“Article-21 of the Constitution talks about right to life for everyone. The job of the Government is to find ways for all and not any particular section. There is no alternative to tapping natural resources. We need power, road and other things which are necessary but should be done in a concerted manner. The Government has set the goal to harness 30 per cent requirement of fuel through renewable sources by 2030,” said the Minister. 

Prasad, at the same time, quoted ancient tradition of the country which found its roots into nature’s conservation and coexistence. He also provoked an idea to mend the ways some traditions were being followed now which often contribute to pollution.

“We have tradition to plant trees like Neem, Pippal, Banyan etc and worship those in such a manner that conserves and protects them. Even the Britishers followed the tradition in plantations but we after Independence forgot them by and large and started planting eucalyptus. Even today we throw materials after performing rituals into rivers and water bodies. Government cannot and should not intervene into sentiments but people should ponder over it and find for other ways looking at health of the rivers, ponds,” he added while blaming greedy nature of society which is harming the environment more than anything.

Earlier, the Union Minister met Chief Minister Raghubar Das, inaugurated BPOs and addressed a gathering over four years of the BJP rule at the Centre where he lauded the growing stature of the country in world community as well as commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards nation building.

Justice SN Pathak also addressed the gathering, saying there are over 200 laws dealing with environment in the country. “We also have to understand that whatever natural resources we have today are with us due to our forefathers. We are just a trustee. Problems are not because of legislation but implementation of the laws already in place and their enforcement. Litigations are expansive and cumbersome. We should go for out of the court settlement of the matters relating to environmental litigations,” said the judge of Jharkhand High Court.

Chairperson of ‘Yugantar Bharti’ and Minister in State Government Saryu Roy also stressed over sustainable development which, he said, was to be found out by the society and followed as well. Also present on the occasion were Vice Chancellor of  BIT, Mesra MK Mishra and PCCF Sanjay Kumar.