A former Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned that environmental pollution poses a far greater risk to India’s long-term economic growth than external factors such as trade tariffs. Speaking at a recent policy discussion, the economic expert stressed that unless environmental challenges are addressed with urgency, India’s growth trajectory could face serious structural constraints.
The expert highlighted that air, water, and soil pollution are already imposing significant economic costs through rising healthcare expenses, reduced labour productivity, and lower quality of life in urban and industrial regions. Poor air quality, in particular, was cited as a major concern, as it affects workforce efficiency, increases absenteeism, and places additional pressure on public health systems. Over time, these factors could erode the economic gains achieved through reforms, investment, and trade expansion.
While acknowledging that trade tariffs and global protectionist trends can impact exports and market access, the former IMF official argued that such challenges are often temporary and negotiable. In contrast, environmental degradation creates long-lasting damage that directly affects human capital, natural resources, and sustainable development prospects. The expert emphasized that ignoring pollution could undermine India’s ambition to become a leading global economic power.
The discussion called for stronger environmental regulations, greater investment in clean energy, sustainable urban planning, and incentives for green technologies. It was also noted that tackling pollution can generate economic opportunities by creating green jobs, attracting responsible investment, and improving overall productivity.
Concluding the remarks, the former IMF deputy urged policymakers to treat environmental protection as an economic priority rather than a secondary concern. Addressing pollution, the expert said, is essential not only for safeguarding public health but also for ensuring resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth for India in the decades ahead news as reported.
