Question

Prepare the arguments for group discussion on the topic-
‘A balanced progress never harms the Nature.’

Answer 1

Moderator:	You’ve all been given a few minutes to think on your topic for today’s group discussion, which is ‘A balanced progress never harms the Nature’ ’You may now begin the discussion. Who would like to start?
Ramesh:	The world today is driven by progress, that is, progress in all key aspects of life  construction, transport or communication. With time, everything has become more complex yet connected.
Swati:	That is true. Technological advancements have led to the invention and discovery of things, which at one point seemed impossible. It has only made this world a better place to live in.
Kalpesh:	I agree that technological growth has led to a lot of advancements, but I beg to differ on the point that it has made the world a better place to live in. Though we have gained much, we have also lost a lot of things in the process. Don’t you think so?
Meena:	I totally agree with Kalpesh. We have ventured into forest lands, cut countless trees and are also damaging coastal areas in the bargain.
Swati:	I would like to point something out. We need to keep progress as our top priority as we take on the world. However, that should be in sync with nature. It needs to be balanced, because only then can it be termed as growth in the true sense.
Deepak:	I am afraid I don’t completely agree with that. Keeping the environment unaffected is very uncertain! Take the example of the Mumbai Metro. Numerous trees have been cut which has drastically reduced the green cover of the city. Also, when we think of Delhi, it is now synonymous with pollution, in spite of being the capital of the country and one of the most advanced cities in the world.
Kalpesh:	Excuse me! I would like to add something here. Even when we look at cities like Bangalore, the lakes and gardens are being affected and it looks like we are losing more than we are gaining. Also, consider the global scenario, incidents such as the forest fires in the Amazon and most recently the deadly blaze in Australia are all examples of development and progress having grossly affecting nature.
Ramesh:	I think I agree with Swati though. There may be a lot of things to consider, but growing while maintaining the balance with nature is what we need to master. Only then will it be true progress.
Deepak:	I can see your point; but do you mean that progress should come to a halt? How will we be at par with the developed world if we do not grow at a rapid pace? I feel progress requires us to be cut throat and unidirectional, but yes not at the cost hampering Mother Nature
Moderator:	All right, everyone. Your time is nearly up. Could someone summarise this discussion, please?
Swati:	Considering everything spoken about today, I think it would be fair to conclude that though progress is necessary; it is also a responsibility. We should focus on dreaming bigger and reaching higher but always conscious of the fact that balance is the key and causing minimal damage to the environment should always be a priority!