During a speech at the National Conference on Environment-2025 in New Delhi, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized that India has embodied sustainability long before it became a global concept, highlighting the reverence for nature ingrained in Indian culture. He remarked that Vedic literature offers invaluable insights for nurturing the Earth and fostering harmony between humanity and nature. He stressed that India holds a unique solution to ecological collapse, pointing out the need for developed nations to adopt an approach prioritizing planetary health over political boundaries.
Recalling the Bhopal gas tragedy of 1984 as an example of severe environmental negligence, Dhankhar noted the ongoing consequences for affected families, including genetic disorders and contaminated groundwater. He lamented the lack of awareness and institutional support, calling for the establishment of regulatory frameworks to prevent similar disasters.
He urged a global evolution of environmental ethics, underscoring humanity’s responsibility to protect the environment, asserting that we are not the owners of the planet. The flourishing of all living beings alongside human existence is crucial. He called for optimal resource utilization, advocating that fiscal capability should not dictate natural resource usage. Dhankhar concluded by emphasizing the need for a positive mindset toward life, aiming for environmental preservation and prudent resource stewardship to ensure sustainability for future generations.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar (file photo) Dhankhar emphasized the synergy of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) with law, science, and ethics, stating, “N for nurturing, G for green, and T for tomorrow.” He views NGT as a pivotal institution for fostering a sustainable future, reflecting a vision that enhances our relationship with nature. He urged for growth from our roots, the use of advanced tools, and a steadfast commitment to climate justice.
He further proclaimed a message of peace, expressing hopes for harmony in the skies, earth, water, and all plants, wishing for tranquility to permeate all aspects of the environment.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Dr. (Smt.) Sudesh Dhankhar, spouse of the Vice-President of India, Justice P.S. Narsimha of the Supreme Court, Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson of the NGT, Shri Tushar Mehta, Solicitor General of India, and Shri Tanmay Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, among other dignitaries. Their presence underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to uphold environmental justice and the role of the judiciary and government in ensuring a sustainable future.
