During the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) meeting in Mumbai, Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Kapil Moreshwar Patil emphasized the significance of prioritizing the advancement and welfare of rural communities alongside urban centers in order to achieve sustainable development.
Addressing the significance of rural community engagement in environmental preservation, he highlighted the adverse effects of shifting rainfall patterns, droughts, water scarcity, heat waves, extreme temperatures, and heightened occurrences of severe weather events. These challenges have posed significant threats to the livelihoods, food security, and overall welfare of rural communities.
Patil emphasized the traditional harmony with nature that characterizes rural and non-urban areas, stating that India has long embraced a sustainable way of life as a nation. He further highlighted the proactive role of Panchayati Raj institutions in promoting renewable energy initiatives and engaging rural communities in various environmental activities. These include afforestation drives, waste management efforts, and water resource conservation, all aimed at fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among citizens.
During her opening remarks, Leena Nandan, G20 India Chair and Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), highlighted the extensive efforts undertaken by the Indian Presidency. She mentioned that a series of focus group discussions were conducted over the course of three weeks, covering all three thematic priorities. These discussions involved a detailed examination and deliberation on the outcome documents, with a thorough review of each line.
