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.
US President Donald Trump, addressing the US Congress, made a major statement on the India-Pakist
PM Modi introduces 'MANAV' vision, explains its meaning at AI Impact Summit
PM Modi presented the "MANAV" vision at the AI Impact Leadership Summit 2026. Offering a ne
A major revelation has emerged regarding the accused individual who attacked two security guards
The weather in Delhi-NCR is expected to remain highly variable between March 30 and April 5. The
'Such things happen': HR Manager targeted women; revelation in Nashik TCS conversion case.
As the investigation into the alleged cases of religious conversion and abuse harassment at the T
Cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties, where every prediction is liable to fail. This was w
Voting is currently underway for 152 seats across 16 districts as part of the first phase of the
Munawar Faruqui Mobbed: Badly Trapped in Crowd, Fans Shove and Push; Security Steps In to Rescue Him
A video is currently going viral on social media, in which Munawar Faruqui is seen badly mobbed b
Escalating tensions in West Asia have disrupted flights at Delhi Airport. Passengers were seen di
Counting Staff Dispute: TMC Approaches Supreme Court, Challenges High Court Verdict
A new controversy has emerged in West Bengal regarding the vote counting process. The ruling Trin
