Rapid industrialisation shouldn't come at cost of our environment: Minister Eshwar Khandre

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

The Karnataka government is committed to creating a green ecosystem that ensures all natural resources continue to provide long-term economic value while preserving their integrity, said state Minister Eshwar B Khandre. Inaugurating the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Karnataka ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Summit 2024 here, the minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, said, "Rapid industrialisation shouldn't come at the cost of our environment." He added, "We must balance economic growth with environmental sustainability by addressing key risks such as pollution, resource overuse, and waste management. The government is committed to creating policies that strike this balance, focusing on waste management, air quality improvement, lake rejuvenation, and pollution control." Emphasising that as industries expand, it is essential to integrate sustainability principles at every stage of the process, Khandre said, "Every sector must align with green technologies to thrive within the boundaries of environmental stewardship.

We cannot separate growth from responsibility." He also noted that emerging economies like India have unique opportunities to leapfrog traditional development models and adopt cutting-edge solutions for sustainability. "Green growth must be inclusive; it must prioritise not only environmental benefits but also social equity. By investing in human capital, promoting inclusive employment, and implementing fair redistribution policies, we can build an economy that serves both the planet and its people," Khandre said.

"As the world accelerates towards a low-carbon economy, businesses must play a pivotal role in driving sustainability. Sustainability is not just a policy; it should be embedded in every aspect of a company's operations," Khandre stressed.