Justice Vikram Nath, a Supreme Court judge, has strongly emphasized the urgent need to regulate emissions and invest in cleaner technologies to address India’s rising pollution crisis. Speaking at the National Conference on Environment 2025 held at Vigyan Bhawan, Justice Nath stressed that it is unacceptable for children to grow up in an environment where they need masks to play outdoors.

A Dire Warning on Pollution in India

Justice Nath pointed out that India’s capital, New Delhi, frequently experiences hazardous air pollution levels, making it one of the most polluted cities in the world. He warned that unregulated emissions, rapid urbanization, and industrial pollution are severely impacting the health of citizens, particularly children.

"This is an urgent call for action. We must regulate emissions, invest in cleaner technologies, and implement sustainable transport solutions that allow economic growth without compromising the air we breathe," Justice Nath asserted.

Water Pollution: A Growing Concern

Beyond air pollution, Justice Nath also flagged water pollution as a major challenge, citing the contamination of India’s sacred rivers due to untreated waste and industrial effluents.

"Many of our pristine rivers, once symbols of purity, are now burdened with untreated waste. We must take urgent action to improve sewage infrastructure and implement stricter industrial waste management," he added.

He emphasized the need for community participation in keeping riverbanks clean and ensuring industries comply with environmental regulations.

Role of the National Green Tribunal

Justice Nath lauded the efforts of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which was established in 2010 to resolve environmental disputes and enforce stricter pollution control measures.

He credited the NGT for promoting the "polluter pays" principle, ensuring that industries and businesses responsible for environmental damage are held accountable.

"The NGT has been a beacon of hope, ensuring that industries, government agencies, and citizens rethink their use of natural resources," he said.

The Need for Government Policies on Green Technologies

Justice Nath called for stronger government policies that support green technologies and sustainable development. He urged industries to adopt eco-friendly practices and minimize their environmental impact.

"The government's policies must encourage investment in green technologies. Industries must take responsibility for their environmental footprint, and civil society must continue to raise awareness," he emphasized.

Judiciary’s Commitment to Environmental Protection

Justice Nath reassured that the Supreme Court and the judiciary are committed to upholding the constitutional guarantee of a clean and healthy environment. However, he stressed that no single institution can protect the environment alone—it requires a collaborative effort between the government, industries, and citizens.

"Environmental protection is a shared responsibility. Only by working together can we create meaningful and lasting change," he noted.

A Call for Sustainable Development

Justice Nath concluded his address with a powerful message:

"Progress does not have to come at the cost of pollution. Development must be in harmony with nature. When we protect the environment, we protect ourselves."

He urged policymakers to focus on sustainable urbanization, cleaner energy sources, and environmental conservation while ensuring India’s economic growth remains on track.

Experts Join the Call for Environmental Action

At the same conference, National Green Tribunal Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava highlighted the event’s importance, noting that it brings together jurists, experts, faculty, and students dedicated to sustainability.

Attorney General R Venkataramani also spoke at the event, stating that urbanization has led to increased energy consumption, resulting in greater exploitation of natural resources.

He emphasized the need for radical reforms in environmental regulations, greater citizen engagement, and policy changes to ensure sustainable development.

Conclusion

The National Conference on Environment 2025 shed light on India’s critical pollution challenges and the urgent need for regulatory action. With Justice Vikram Nath, the National Green Tribunal, and legal experts advocating for green technologies and stricter environmental policies, the focus is now on implementing sustainable solutions to protect India’s future.

The Current active IPO are Aten Papers & Foam Limited, Infonative Solutions Limited,Spinaroo Commercial Limited,Retaggio Industries Limited,Identixweb Limited.

The Closed IPOs are  ATC Energies System Limited, Shri Ahimsa Naturals Limited, Desco Infratech Limited

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.