Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar clarified on Tuesday that the Narendra Modi government had never favoured the controversial private airport project at Aranmula in Pathanamthitta district and no sanction had been given since the government assumed office last year.
Addressing a public meeting organised by the BJP to mark the first anniversary of the government, Mr. Javadekar said the government would not permit any project that would be harmful to the environment. This government was committed to protecting the environment.
Referring to basic facilities required for pilgrims to Sabarimala, Mr. Javadekar said forest land would be provided for the purpose if the State government submitted a viable project.
Regarding the recent Supreme Court observation on using elephants during religious functions, Mr Javadekar hinted that his Ministry would even push forward legislation allowing the use of elephants in religious ceremonies, but without meting out cruelty to the animal. Mr. Javadekar said the Union government was keen on protecting the coastal areas.
It had imposed strictures against mis-utilisation of the coastal region.
