Centre allocates Rs 4,400 cr to encourage states formulating plans for clean air

Expressing concern over air pollution in large cities, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday announced an allocation of Rs 4,400 crore to encourage states formulating plans to ensure clean air in cities which have a population of above one million.

While presenting the Union Budget for 2020-21, Sitharaman said, "In large cities having population above one million, clean air is a matter of concern. The government proposes to encourage such states that are formulating and implementing plans for ensuring cleaner air in cities above one million.

"Parameters for the incentives would be notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate change. Allocation for this purpose is Rs 4,400 crore for 2020-21," she said.

She also proposed to shut down existing thermal power plants with high carbon emissions.

"There are thermal power plants that are old and their carbon emission levels are high. For such power plants, we propose that utilities running them would be advised to close them, if their emission is above the pre-set norms. The land so vacated can be put to alternative use," she said.

The minister highlighted the measures taken by the prime minister in the last one year for climate change adaptation and disaster resilient infrastructure to help achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

"In September 2019, the prime minister has launched the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) with its Secretariat in Delhi. This global partnership is the second such international initiative after the launch of International Solar Alliance in 2015.

"This global partnership will help in addressing a number of SDGs, as also the aims of Sendai framework. It will enhance climate change adaptation with a focus on disaster resilient infrastructure," she said.

She further said India submitted its Nationally Determined Contribution, under the Paris Agreement in 2015 on a 'best effort' basis, keeping in mind the development imperative of the country.

"Its implementation effectively begins on January 1, 2021. Our commitments as action will be executed in various sectors by the Departments/Ministries concerned through the normal budgeting process," she said.