The Environment Ministry received allocation of Rs 2,250.34 crore, an increase of Rs 547.4 crore from the previous Budget.
With increased thrust on clean energy in the present Budget, the nomenclature of ‘Clean Energy Cess’ levied on coal, lignite and peat has been changed to ‘Clean Environment Cess’ and its rate doubled from Rs 200 to Rs 400 per metric tonne. Funds from the Clean Environment Cess, in which power sector is the biggest contributor, are likely to be used for opening a concessional window of financing for meeting the new emission norms.
Amongst the strategic areas of allocation for the green Ministry, include the heads of National River Conservation Programme (NRCP) with Rs 857.02 crore. The NRCP covers polluted stretches of 39 rivers in 190 towns in 20 States at a sanctioned cost of Rs 7,639 crore. Transfer to Clean Energy Fund to States and Union Territories is to the tune of Rs 827 crore.
In an effort to boost conservation of endangered wildlife species, Rs 819.40 crore have been earmarked for Integrated Development of Wildlife & Habitat Ecology & Environment has been given Rs 745.73 crore. Forestry and Wildlife has been given Rs 330.50 crore as against Rs 283.94 crore the last year.
Environmental Protection & Monitoring has been allotted Rs 223.98 crore. The fund would be used for protection of environment, create awareness and impart education through exhibitions and training programmes. The Anti-poaching squad under Environment Ministry — Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been allotted Rs 10.04 crore.
The National Green Tribunal has been given Rs 35 crore, while Central Pollution Control Board will function in the current fiscal with above Rs 70 crore.With an allocation of Rs 151.20 crore for Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education, stress is also on surveys covering various aspects of environment, forest and ecology.