The State of India’s Environment 2025 report was launched on February 26, 2025. This comprehensive document marks critical environmental issues affecting India. It covers climate change, waste management, air and water pollution, and biodiversity. The report was presented by prominent figures, including Amitabh Kant and Sunita Narain, who emphasised the urgent need for improved environmental management.
Overview of Key Issues
The report identifies several pressing environmental challenges. Climate change has led to unprecedented weather events. In 2024, India experienced extreme weather on 255 days, impacting agriculture. The report also addresses the ongoing crisis of waste management and air pollution. These issues are exacerbated by weak governance and lack of public awareness.
Climate Change and its Impact
2024 marked a turning point, with global temperatures surpassing 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This rise in temperature has resulted in increased atmospheric moisture, leading to more extreme weather events. The agricultural sector suffered substantially, with millions of hectares affected by adverse conditions.
Public Awareness and Government Response
There is a growing environmental consciousness among the public. Recent elections brought into light voter concerns about clean air and waste management. Governments are responding with new initiatives. However, many programmes lack ambition and inclusivity. Effective governance is crucial for meaningful change.
Focus Areas of the Report
The report includes sections on various topics. These range from plastics and antimicrobial resistance to the impact of climate change on the Thar desert. Special attention is given to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy and the ecological significance of the Western Ghats. The report also discusses India’s goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy.
Challenges to Local Governance
Local governance issues are prevalent in many Indian cities. The report marks the need for empowering local governments. Effective local governance is essential for addressing environmental challenges.
Future Prospects and Opportunities
Despite the challenges, there are opportunities for India. The current global crisis can be seen as a chance to advance clean technology manufacturing. The emergence of AI and quantum computing may also offer solutions to environmental problems.
Annual Conclave of Environmental Journalists
The Anil Agarwal Dialogue 2025 gathered over 80 journalists to discuss environmental and developmental issues. This annual conclave aims to enhance awareness and dialogue among media professionals.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of climate change on agriculture in India as brought into light in the State of India’s Environment 2025 report.
- What are the governance challenges faced by local governments in India? Explain how these challenges affect environmental management.
- With suitable examples, comment on the significance of public awareness in addressing environmental issues in India.
- What is the role of technology in combating climate change? How can emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing contribute to environmental solutions?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on agriculture in India as brought into light in the State of India’s Environment 2025 report.
- 2024 saw extreme weather events on 255 days, affecting agricultural productivity.
- 3.2 million hectares of cropland were impacted, a 74% increase compared to 2022.
- Rising global temperatures have led to increased atmospheric moisture, causing more severe weather disruptions.
- Farmers are facing challenges such as crop failure and soil degradation due to climate-related changes.
- Long-term impacts include food insecurity and economic stress on rural communities reliant on agriculture.
2. What are the governance challenges faced by local governments in India? Explain how these challenges affect environmental management.
- Many cities lack effective local governance structures, leading to inefficiency in environmental management.
- Local governments often lack the authority and resources to implement environmental policies effectively.
- Weak governance results in poor waste management and inadequate responses to pollution crises.
- Public awareness and engagement are minimal, hindering community-driven environmental initiatives.
- Empowering local governments is essential for improving accountability and encouraging sustainable practices.
3. With suitable examples, comment on the significance of public awareness in addressing environmental issues in India.
- Recent Delhi assembly elections brought into light voter concerns about clean air and waste management, indicating public prioritization of environmental issues.
- Increased awareness has led to community-driven initiatives, such as local clean-up drives and waste segregation programs.
- Public pressure has prompted governments to introduce more environmental policies and regulations.
- Media coverage and educational campaigns play vital roles in raising awareness about climate change and pollution.
- Awareness encourages a sense of responsibility among citizens, encouraging sustainable practices in daily life.
4. What is the role of technology in combating climate change? How can emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing contribute to environmental solutions?
- Technology can enhance data collection and analysis, improving climate modeling and forecasting capabilities.
- AI can optimize resource management in agriculture, reducing waste and improving crop yields.
- Quantum computing holds potential for solving complex environmental problems that traditional computing cannot address effectively.
- Emerging technologies can facilitate the development of clean energy solutions, such as efficient solar panels and energy storage systems.
- Innovative technologies can also improve waste management systems and promote recycling initiatives.
