The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has expressed its support for the Union Budget 2025-26’s announcement of a 9% increase in the allocation to the Environment Ministry. However, the EPG demands that allocation for the preservation and conservation of the environment must be increased manifold.
This year's budget allocates Rs 3,412.82 crore, up from Rs 3,125.96 crore in 2024-25 to the environment ministry.
The condition of Kashmir's wetlands has been increasingly worrisome, facing threats from pollution, climate change, and human activities. EPG commends the government's recognition of the urgent need for environmental funding and considers this budgetary increase a necessary step towards addressing the pressing environmental challenges.
While we welcome the increase in allocation, it is imperative that we continue to bolster our financial commitment toward environmental protection, Given the deteriorating health of ecosystems across the country, particularly our wetlands, we urge the central government to further enhance budgetary provisions for environmental initiatives to safeguard our natural heritage.
EPG is hopeful that this budget will enable significant projects aimed at restoring and preserving critical ecosystems, combatting pollution, and promoting sustainable practices.
The EPG insists that proactive measures and substantial funding are essential to reversing environmental degradation and ensuring a healthy, sustainable future for all.