Environmentalists have expressed disappointment with the Union Budget 2026-27, stating that it missed a crucial opportunity to address the country's escalating air pollution and the serious health crisis it is causing.
The budget has reduced allocations for pollution control, even as toxic air continues to pose a significant threat in Delhi-NCR and the Indo-Gangetic plains. For the financial year 2026-27, the central government has allocated ₹1,091 crore for pollution control, which is ₹209 crore less than the revised estimate of ₹1,300 crore for 2025-26.
What were the figures last year?
It is noteworthy that in 2025-26, ₹853.9 crore was initially allocated for pollution control, which was later increased, but the actual expenditure remained a mere ₹16 crore. This raises questions not only about priorities but also about implementation at the ground level.
This reduction comes at a time when India is grappling with environmental challenges such as extreme heatwaves, urban flooding, intense cyclones, and prolonged periods of hazardous air quality. Despite this, the government's emphasis on environmental protection and climate action appears limited.
The Environment Ministry's budget increased, but the base is weak
In 2026-27, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has been allocated ₹3,759.46 crore, which is approximately ₹278 crore (about 8%) more than the budget estimate of ₹3,481.61 crore for 2025-26. However, experts say that while the increase looks good in percentage terms, the total amount is insufficient considering the climate risks, ecological degradation, and international commitments.
Spending patterns and implementation challenges
Capital expenditure has increased from ₹174.39 crore to ₹222.80 crore, which could strengthen research infrastructure and environmental monitoring systems. However, revenue expenditure has seen only a marginal increase, primarily limited to maintaining existing institutions and schemes. Some institutional strengthening is evident. Units like the Botanical Survey of India and the Zoological Survey of India have received increased allocations. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has also been given additional funds, reflecting the growing environmental litigation and the increasing enforcement burden on states.
Air Pollution: The Biggest Concern
The greatest concern is air pollution. The ₹1,091 crore allocation for pollution control boards and the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) is considered inadequate at a time when air quality in many cities frequently reaches the severe category. States already face difficulties in implementing clean air action plans; fewer resources from the central government could mean weaker monitoring and slower action.
Climate activists have reacted sharply to this reduction. They have taken to social media, stating that cutting funding for pollution control is a disregard for a public health emergency and will only exacerbate the crisis.
What is the government's stance?
The government maintains that pollution remains a priority. Anuradha Thakur, Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs, stated that the central government is funding efforts to combat air and water pollution through various channels.
According to her, significant expenditure is also being incurred on sewage and drainage-related works, and a large portion of the Finance Commission grants are linked to sanitation and water-related outcomes.
What are the demands of the opposition?
The opposition is not satisfied with this explanation. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has demanded a detailed debate on air pollution in Parliament and stressed the need for increased budgetary allocations. In a video message, he said that pollution needs to be declared a national health emergency, requiring a serious plan with adequate funding.
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