Environmentalists are urging the government to boost the budget for the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. They believe that addressing environmental issues should be a top priority in the upcoming Union Budget for 2026-27, set to be presented on February 1.
Last year, the environment ministry received about ₹3,413 crore, which was a 9% increase from the previous year’s budget of ₹3,330.37 crore. While there’s been an upward trend in funding, many feel it’s not enough when considering the urgent tasks ahead.
India has deep roots in environmental stewardship. Over time, the country has shifted from merely participating in global climate initiatives to taking on a leadership role. The government’s ambitious plans include the National Mission for a Green India (GIM), focused on improving forest cover and implementing eco-restoration efforts. This mission aims to tackle climate change through community involvement and sustainable practices.
Expert voices, such as Deepak Ramesh Gaur—known as the ‘Tree Man’—stress that a larger budget for environmental restoration is essential. He predicts dire consequences, such as food shortages and health crises, if environmental concerns are neglected by 2047, the year India aims to become a superpower. Gaur suggests that the budget should incentivize individuals and organizations working in restoration and conservation. He advocates for stricter measures against pollution and easier access to funding for clean initiatives.
B.S. Vohra, another environmentalist, calls for stronger action against air pollution, especially in urban areas. He believes the budget should support the National Clean Air Programme with clear pollution targets and promote cleaner transportation options, including electric vehicles. Vohra emphasizes the need for real accountability in pollution control, particularly in cities like Delhi, which faces severe air quality issues.
Dr. Anil Gupta, a member of the Central Pollution Control Board, echoes the call for a budget increase for air quality improvement. He highlights the link between air pollution and health problems, urging that addressing this issue is vital for public health.
Recent reports reveal that air pollution in India contributes to millions of premature deaths annually. The World Health Organization estimates that around 1.7 million deaths in India can be attributed to outdoor air pollution. It’s becoming increasingly clear that investment in the environment isn’t just about preserving nature; it’s also about protecting public health and ensuring a sustainable future.
As the budget announcement approaches, the voices for a greener, healthier India are growing louder. It remains to be seen how the government will respond to these urgent calls for action.
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BUDGET 2026, ENVIRONMENT BUDGET, NIRMALA SITHARAMAN, ENVIRONMENT BUDGET ALLOCATIONS, 'PRAKRITIK SAMADHAN' NEED OF THE HOUR: ENVIRONMENTALISTS CALL FOR BIGGER ENVIRONMENT BUDGET
