Bhupender Yadav Says India Achieved Major Progress in Climate Protection Under Modi
India Makes Major Strides in Climate Protection Under Modi: Bhupender Yadav
New Delhi, March 11 – India has made significant progress in climate protection through a “whole of Government” approach under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav said in the Rajya Sabha. He highlighted that the number of protected areas and wildlife reserves has grown substantially since 2014.
Expansion of Protected Areas and Wildlife Conservation
Replying to a debate on his ministry’s work, Yadav stated that the number of protected areas increased from 757 in 2014 to 1,134 in 2026, covering 1,87,162.91 sq km, up from 1,68,838.37 sq km.
He also noted improvements in wildlife conservation:
Tiger reserves: 47 → 58
Elephant reserves: 26 → 33
Asiatic lion population: 523 → 891
“Around 70% of the world’s wild tigers are now in India,” he said.
Tree Cover and Carbon Sink Enhancements
Yadav added that tree cover has increased from 92,572 sq km to 1,12,014 sq km, creating additional carbon sinks in line with India’s climate commitments.
Streamlined Environmental Governance
The minister emphasized the role of digital platforms like the PARIVESH portal, which has cut the time for environmental clearances from approximately 600 days to less than 90 days. He also mentioned rules framed to manage construction and demolition waste, electronic waste, fly ash, and single-use plastics to tackle pollution.
Opposition Concerns on Environmental Issues
Congress member Neeraj Dangi raised concerns about deforestation, air pollution, and infrastructure projects affecting ecosystems and tribal communities. He highlighted degradation in the Aravalli range and alleged illegal mining had destroyed several hillocks, along with rising deaths linked to particulate pollution.
Dangi also flagged the Greater Nicobar infrastructure project, citing potential threats to fragile ecosystems and indigenous communities.
Rajya Sabha Procedural Notes
Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan allowed Dangi to speak after the discussion had officially concluded, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in democracy. Opposition parties had staged a walkout on Monday, limiting their participation in the ministry’s debate.
