PM Modi Inaugurates 'Future of Environment and Climate Change' International Conference, Launches NGT Mobile App

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the two-day international conference titled 'Future of Environment and Climate Change,' organized by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in New Delhi. On this occasion, the Prime Minister also launched the NGT mobile application. The inaugural session was attended by Justice Surya Kant, Judge of the Supreme Court of India, Attorney General for India Mr. R. Venkataramani, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Mr. Bhupender Yadav, and NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Srivastava.

In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized India's deep historical connection with nature and explained how ancient cultural knowledge is inspiring modern climate solutions and global collective action. He praised the National Green Tribunal for advancing this mission.

In his speech, Justice Surya Kant stated that the Supreme Court has recognized the right to a pollution-free environment as a fundamental right. He highlighted the development of crucial principles such as the precautionary principle, the polluter pays principle, absolute liability, and the public trust doctrine. He called for collective judicial intelligence and international cooperation for global environmental governance.

Union Minister Mr. Bhupender Yadav provided details on India's climate commitments, stating that non-fossil energy sources now account for 54.18 percent of the installed electricity capacity, surpassing the 2030 target of 50 percent nine years ahead of schedule. He informed that India ranks third globally in renewable energy capacity and second in the solar energy market. Mentioning wildlife programs such as cheetah rehabilitation and Great Indian Bustard conservation, Mr. Yadav noted that India's forest and tree cover has reached 8.27 lakh square kilometers. According to the UN FAO Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025, India has maintained its third-place position in the world for annual net forest area growth.

Attorney General Mr. R. Venkataramani remarked that no country can face environmental challenges alone and that global action must be translated into practical mechanisms. He called for a new global environmental regulatory framework and strong international institutions to ensure environmental justice.

NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Srivastava described environmental protection as a collective national and global responsibility. The conference is being attended by jurists, policymakers, scientists, and environmental experts from 17 countries, as well as organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Four technical sessions are being organized during the conference. The first session focused on 'Climate Justice, Equity, and Inclusion,' while the second session, themed 'Future of Environmental Law and Governance,' deliberated on issues such as institutional strengthening, energy transition, and green finance. The primary objective of this event is to strengthen environmental laws, promote climate justice, and develop a collaborative roadmap for transboundary environmental challenges.