Q5(a). Explain the objectives of the Indian National Environment Policy (NEP), 2006.

“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”

- Native American Proverb

The National Environment Policy, 2006, emerged as India’s comprehensive framework for sustainable development, responding to environmental degradation and aligning with international commitments like Rio Declaration (1992) and Agenda 21. It aimed to integrate environmental concerns into development planning across sectors.

Objectives of NEP 2006

1. Conservation of Critical Environmental Resources: Ensures protection of forests, wetlands, coastal zones, and biodiversity hotspots. It supports the National Biodiversity Action Plan (2008).
2. Intra- and Inter-generational Equity: Promotes fair distribution of environmental benefits and ecological services across communities and generations.
3. Integration of Environmental Concerns in Economic Planning: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), natural resource accounting, and green budgeting were emphasized for sustainable growth.
4. Pollution Prevention and Control: Targets reduction in air, water, and soil pollution. Linked with later initiatives like National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and Swachh Bharat Mission.
5. Enhancing Environmental Governance: Strengthening institutions, decentralizing decision-making, and empowering local bodies and Panchayats for environmental management.
6. Livelihood Security for Vulnerable Communities: Focuses on tribal and forest-dependent populations through joint forest management (JFM) and eco-restoration programmes.
7. Climate Change Adaptation: Encourages climate-resilient agriculture, energy efficiency, and disaster risk reduction, forming the basis for NAPCC (2008).

Haryana implemented Aravalli protection initiatives, Mera Pani–Meri Virasat (water conservation), and large-scale afforestation aligning with NEP goals.

Conclusion:

NEP-2006 laid India’s modern environmental governance foundation by harmonising ecological sustainability with economic growth.