India Can't Do Without Nuclear, Thermal Energy: Ramesh

Environment and Forests Minister Jairam Ramesh Friday said there was no alternative to commercial energy - nuclear and thermal - if India aims to continue developing annually at a rate of 9 percent.

"A country of 1.21 billion cannot fulfill its energy demands from renewable sources alone. It needs commercial sources like nuclear and thermal energy," said Ramesh at an event 'Green Haat' held here to mark the launch leading up to the World Environment Day June 5.

On Germany's decision to shut down all its nuclear plants, Ramesh said: "Every country has to decide for itself whether it wants commercial or renewable energy to develop depending on its growth rate.

India is the global host of the World Environment Day 2011.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director Achim Steiner said: "It is a proud moment for us to see for the first time India host the World Environment Day. With this initiative, millions of Indians will be motivated and encouraged to work towards a greener environment."

"I urge the world to take a look at India and what it is doing for a better environment and we are proud of it," he added.

Ramesh said that he was "disappointed" that it took the country "38 years" to become a global host.

"We should be playing a much more active role internationally. A whole new generation of Indians is adept in handling problems and we should be optimistic and not defensive," said Ramesh.

"We should work towards making the 'Green Haat' an annual feature," he added.