Development and environment should advance together, says Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

‎Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said here on Friday that development and environmental protection must be treated as complementary priorities rather than conflicting objectives. He emphasised that water conservation is vital for safeguarding the future of humanity and requires collective efforts from governments, public representatives and citizens.

‎Speaking at the Water Transversality Global Awards & Conclave 2026 in New Delhi, the Lok Sabha Speaker underscored the importance of sustainable development and international cooperation in tackling rising global water challenges. He noted that initiatives such as the International Water Forum are playing an important role in facilitating dialogue and collaborative solutions at the global level to address issues related to water security.

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‎”Development and environment must not be seen as opposing forces, but as complementary,” Birla said, adding that protecting water resources is essential to ensuring the well-being of future generations.

‎Highlighting the role of citizens in protecting natural resources, he said lasting change would be possible only when people become conscious of their responsibility towards water conservation, energy efficiency and environmental protection. “Real change will be possible only when citizens become aware and responsible toward water conservation, energy efficiency and environmental protection,” he added.

‎He pointed out that water, energy, health, and the environment are closely interconnected sectors and that addressing challenges in these areas requires a coordinated and integrated policy framework. Stressing the need for alignment across government systems, Birla said inclusive development depends on greater “transversality” between departments and policies to achieve effective outcomes.

“For inclusive development, transversality between departments and policies is essential,” he said, adding that cooperation across institutions and sectors is necessary for achieving sustainable progress.

‎Calling for practical action on water management, Birla advocated adopting the approach of “Reduce, Reuse, Recharge and Recycle” to conserve water resources more effectively. He also referred to initiatives such as the Catch the Rain campaign and the Jal Jeevan Mission, noting that the success of such programmes depends significantly on active public participation.

‎The Speaker further highlighted India’s progress in renewable energy as a key component of its climate commitments. He said advances in solar power, wind energy and green hydrogen are helping the country move towards a more sustainable development pathway while strengthening environmental resilience.

“A sustainable future can only be achieved through the power of youth and strong global cooperation,” Birla said, adding that scientific thinking, transparent governance and social responsibility are essential for ensuring that economic growth and environmental balance progress together.

‎Referring to India’s cultural traditions, Birla also spoke about the spiritual and life-sustaining importance of water in the country’s civilisation. Emphasising the importance of Janbhagidari, or public participation, he said efforts toward water conservation and environmental protection must involve people at every level of governance, from local panchayats to Parliament, in order to bring about meaningful and lasting change.