Welcoming the discussions, Mr Ramesh noted, "Our Government is clear about the need to reflect and factor in ecological concerns into our growth process so that the benefits of growth can be achieved without critically straining the environment. Our projects supported by the World Bank specifically address our most compelling environmental concerns, including river cleaning and conserving our biodiversity. We are also working at strengthening our environmental regulators as a probable area of future engagement."
Applauding the government's efforts, Mr Zoellick said, "India is working to integrate its growth objectives and need to overcome poverty with the sustainability of natural resources and the well-being of future generations. The Government is striving to avoid actions that will add to costs - today and tomorrow - for health, clean water, clean air and preservation of valuable biodiversity. The World Bank Group is pleased to share its experience to support India's inclusive and sustainable development."
The Minister and the Bank President discussed the Government's vision for a strong sustainable development agenda. The Government is focusing efforts on applying rigorous environmental safeguards for infrastructure projects, strengthening the environmental governance system, revitalizing regulatory institutions, investing in air and water quality improvements, and addressing the challenge of climate change on an ongoing basis. Read the full report here.
Source: MMD Newswire, New Delhi.
