Vijayawada: Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for forests and environment, Pawan Kalyan, said that the state’s responsibility is to ensure clean air and water for future generations while balancing industrial investment with pollution control. He said Pollution Control Board (PCB) must be strengthened as a statutory body and directed officials to prepare a comprehensive report on its staff, operations, and infrastructure. Directing the officials, Pawan Kalyan stressed that while promoting industrial growth, strict pollution control measures must be enforced without creating conditions that drive investors away. Pawan further stressed the importance of involving youth and students in environmental awareness programmes and linking industry with academia to strengthen R&D in pollution control. He also cautioned officials to remain vigilant against individuals seeking personal gain in the name of the PCB.