India, June 5 -- The Rig Veda reminds us: "Mata Bhumih Putro Aham Prithivyah"-(The Earth is my mother, and I am her son). This relationship must shape public policy and the design of government programmes.

First, environmental regulations must be re-evaluated to signal a shift toward sustainable growth. The Bhagavad Gita emphasises balance between humans and nature. Environmental regulators should uphold their dharma free of fear or favour.

Second, clean air should become a constitutional promise and be treated as a fundamental right. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) should be expanded with legally binding targets and public accountability. City-level air quality plans must include health-based indicators, independent audits, and...