T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad vs. Union of India, (2008) 2 SCC 222

Vedanta Aluminum Ltd. (Vedanta) filed an application before the Supreme Court seeking clearance of the proposal for use of a certain amount of land (including a reserve forest land) for setting up an aluminum refinery, including a large integrated aluminum complex. In disposing of the matter, the court said that adherence to the principle of sustainable development is now a constitutional requirement. In applying the principle of sustainable development, one must bear in mind that development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs in sustainable development. It is the duty of the State under the Constitution to devise and implement a coherent and coordinated programme to meet its obligation of sustainable development based on inter-generational equity. While mining is an important revenue-generating industry, national assets must not be placed into the hands of companies without a proper mechanism in place. The court also noted that the credibility of Vedanta is not apparent and it is not inclined to clear the project. However, if Vedanta and the State jointly agree to a suggested rehabilitation project around the mine as a safeguard to protect nature, it may be possible for the project to proceed.