New Delhi: New Delhi, on Saturday, Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath emphasized the importance of regulating emissions and investing in cleaner technologies to address pollution. He expressed that it is unacceptable for children to grow up in an environment where they require masks to play outdoors.
Justice Nath highlighted the necessity of finding solutions that balance economic development with environmental health, asserting that government policies should prioritize green technologies.
He made these remarks during the opening session of the National Conference on Environment – 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, where President Droupadi Murmu served as the chief guest.
“The capital of India consistently faces severe pollution levels. It is clear that we cannot allow our children to grow up in a setting where they must wear masks to play outside or fear respiratory issues at such a young age,” Justice Nath stated.
“This is a pressing call to action, indicating that we must unite to regulate emissions, invest in cleaner technologies, and consider sustainable transportation options that facilitate economic advancement without jeopardizing the air quality,” he added.
He also pointed out water pollution as a significant issue, noting that many once-sacred rivers are now burdened with untreated waste.
“When I observe these riverbanks, I experience a blend of nostalgia and concern… Nostalgia for the vibrant and pure waters of the past and concern for our failure to protect them in their natural state. It is crucial to treat industrial effluent, improve sewage infrastructure, and encourage local communities to maintain cleanliness along riverbanks,” Justice Nath remarked.
Commending the National Green Tribunal, the Supreme Court judge noted that this body has become a symbol of hope since its inception in 2010, playing a crucial role in the efficient resolution of environmental disputes.
By advocating for the “polluter pays” principle and precautionary measures, the tribunal has encouraged industries, governmental organizations, and the public to reconsider their approach to natural resource utilization, he noted.
In discussing potential solutions, Justice Nath remarked, “Government policies should promote green technologies. Industries need to be aware of their environmental impact, and civil society must persist in raising awareness and holding us accountable.”
He emphasized that while the judiciary is dedicated to upholding the constitutional right to a healthy environment and addressing environmental violations, no single entity can achieve the vast goal of environmental protection independently.
“It is through collaborative efforts that we can foster significant and enduring change in the future. Let us not forget our purpose. We are here because we believe that progress does not necessitate pollution and that development can and should coexist harmoniously with nature,” stated the Supreme Court judge.
“Let us depart with the understanding that the environment is not merely an external resource to be exploited at our discretion. It is an integral part of our collective identity, deeply connected to our health, culture, economy, and spirit,” he added.
“When we safeguard nature, we safeguard ourselves, and it is with this spirit of unity and responsibility that I encourage all of us to continue on this path towards a future where India is recognized as a beacon of sustainable development and environmental balance,” he concluded.
During the event, National Green Tribunal Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava remarked that the conference “is notable for its inclusivity, uniting jurists, experts, faculty, and students, all dedicated to sustainability,” and that it was meticulously structured to tackle environmental issues through four technical sessions.
Attorney General R. Venkataramani pointed out that urbanization leads to increased energy consumption, which consequently results in greater exploitation of natural resources.
