Panel Discussion on “Environmental Governance in India”

Indian Institute of Public Administration, J&K Regional Branch organized a panel discussion on “Environmental Governance in India”. The discussion was attended by delegates from RTIC, ERA, JKP, Forest Department, JDA and JMC besides members of IIPA, civil society.

Dr C.M.Seth, IFS (Retd.) Former Chairman, J&K Pollution Control Board while introducing the subject said sustainability in terms of environment, economic, social and cultural are the key aspect of governance. He said that it is a multi level interaction and requires political will to enforce laws in the interest of environment of the region. He highlighted about the features of the new legislation that the Central Government is planning which stresses upon creating the Green Economy.

Er V.N.Sharma, Member Regional Empowered Committee, Union Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change enlightened the audience about the role of Regional Empowered Committees in regulating the conversion of forest land for other uses. Shri P.P.Sharma, Ex Chairman, State Environmental Assessment Authority shared his experiences regarding environment governance with specific reference to J&K. He said that citizens have to be active so that government performs its duty to enforce regulations related to environmental governance.

Earlier Professor Alka Sharma, Director (Seminars), IIPA talked about the relevance of the theme and highlighted few cases regarding environmental governance in India. Er J B S Johar, Honorary Secretary was also present during the function. Dr. Anil Gupta, Joint Secretary, IIPA presented the formal vote of thanks