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Om Birla: Development & Environment Are Complementary, Not Opposing Forces

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla addressed the Water Transversality Global Awards & Conclave 2026, stating that development and the environment are complementary forces. He stressed that water conservation is critical for the future and requires active public participation and an integrated approach to interconnected challenges like energy and health. Birla highlighted India's progress in renewable energy and initiatives like "Catch the Rain" and the Jal Jeevan Mission. He concluded that a sustainable future depends on youth, global cooperation, scientific approach, and transparent governance.

Key Points: Om Birla on Water Conservation and Sustainable Development

  • Water conservation is essential for humanity's future
  • Public participation key to success of initiatives like Jal Jeevan Mission
  • Renewable energy strengthening India's climate commitments
  • Integrated approach needed for water, energy, health, and environment
2 min read

Development, environment not opposing forces, but complementary: Om Birla

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasizes water conservation, public participation, and a coordinated approach for sustainable development and environmental balance.

"Development and environment must not be seen as opposing forces, but as complementary. - Om Birla"

New Delhi, March 6

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday said that development and environment must not be seen as opposing forces, but as complementary. He added that water conservation is essential for securing the future of humanity and all stakeholders, including public representatives, should work collaboratively towards this aim.

Birla made these comments while addressing the Water Transversality Global Awards & Conclave 2026.

Birla emphasised the importance of sustainable development and global cooperation and noted that initiatives like the International Water Forum (IWF) are playing a significant role at the global level in addressing water-related challenges.

Observing that real change is possible only when citizens become aware and responsible towards water conservation, energy efficiency, and environmental protection, Birla highlighted that water, energy, health, and environment are deeply interconnected. He stated that these complex challenges can only be addressed through a coordinated and integrated approach.

He also underlined that for inclusive development, "transversality" between departments and policies is essential to achieve better harmony in our efforts.

Birla stressed the importance of adopting the mantra of "Reduce, Reuse, Recharge, and Recycle" for water conservation. Referring to initiatives such as "Catch the Rain" and the "Jal Jeevan Mission," he underlined the critical role of public participation in ensuring the success of such campaigns.

He further stated that renewable energy and green initiatives are strengthening India's climate commitments. Birla observed that India's progress in solar energy, wind energy, and green hydrogen is remarkable and is helping the country move towards sustainable development.

Birla emphasised that a sustainable future can only be achieved through the power of youth and strong global cooperation. He added that if we move forward with a scientific approach, transparent governance, and social responsibility, we can build a future where economic prosperity and environmental balance progress together.

Birla also highlighted the spiritual and life-sustaining significance of water in Indian culture.

Emphasising the imperative of Janbhagidari, Birla underlined that these efforts must be carried out with active public participation, from the panchayat level to the Parliament, to bring about meaningful and lasting change.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good words, but action is what counts. In my city, lakes are still being encroached for new apartments. Hope this 'transversality' between departments actually happens on the ground. Jal Jeevan Mission is a good start, but implementation in villages needs more speed.
A
Aman W
Absolutely correct. We treat water as a free resource and waste so much. Remembering the spiritual significance of rivers like Ganga and Yamuna should motivate us more to save them. Public participation is key - from fixing leaky taps at home to community rain harvesting.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in the renewable sector, it's encouraging to see leadership acknowledge the progress in solar and green hydrogen. India has massive potential to be a green energy leader. The focus on youth and global cooperation is spot on for tackling climate issues.
V
Vikram M
The 'Catch the Rain' initiative in our colony has made a real difference. Our groundwater level has improved. When policies and people come together, change happens. More such janbhagidari is needed. Our future depends on water security.
K
Karthik V
While I appreciate the sentiment, we often see these complementary goals clash in reality. Industrial projects are still cleared in eco-sensitive zones. We need stricter enforcement and less lip service. The speech is perfect, now let's see the walk.

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