GS Paper: GS3

Stigma of HIV and the birth of biomedical waste regulations

Why in the News?

The stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS impacts not only those living with the virus but also affects healthcare practices as a whole. India needs policies that address both the medical treatment of HIV and the social issues that prevent effective healthcare.

Background:

In 1983, Luc Montagnier and Robert Gallo identified the AIDS-causing virus. By the mid-1980s, HIV/AIDS symbolized fear, targeting immune cells and posing immense medical challenges without effective treatments.
In August 1987, the U.S. beaches saw a disturbing “Syringe Tide,” with used syringes and medical waste washing ashore, alarming the public and creating a national outcry over health concerns.
In 1986, India passed the Environmental Protection Act, marking its first major step towards environmental protection. It also identified the first HIV case at Madras Medical College.
Despite this progress, biomedical waste was not recognized as ‘hazardous waste’, and the 1989 Hazardous Waste Rules did not include biomedical waste, leaving its disposal to local bodies.

Why did the USA pass the Medical Waste Tracking Act, of 1988?

Public Health Crisis: The syringe tide incident, where used syringes and medical waste washed ashore, raised severe public health concerns, especially given the context of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Many syringes found were reportedly HIV-positive, amplifying fears about contamination and disease transmission.
Economic Impact: The tourism industry suffered significant losses, estimated at over $1 billion due to beach closures and public fear of contaminated shorelines. This economic fallout prompted a swift governmental response to restore public confidence and safety.
Regulatory Framework: The Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988 established a clear framework for monitoring and managing medical waste from its generation to disposal. This legislation recognized medical waste as a distinct category requiring specific handling procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

What are the new Biomedical Waste Regulations in India?

Biomedical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, introduced in 1998: It marked a significant step by formally recognizing hospital waste as hazardous. This legislation empowered Pollution Control Boards to oversee waste management practices.
Biomedical Waste Management Rules (BMWM Rules)), 2016: It represents a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at managing biomedical waste effectively.
- Initially, biomedical waste was categorized into ten different types. This was later simplified to four color-coded categories in the 2016 amendments, which aimed to streamline the segregation process
Segregation and Treatment: Current regulations mandate that biomedical waste be segregated at the point of generation into specific categories (e.g., infectious, non-infectious) and treated accordingly before disposal.
- Yellow Bags: For human anatomical waste, soiled waste, expired medicines, and chemical waste. This waste is typically treated through incineration.
- Red Bags: For recyclable contaminated waste such as tubing and syringes (without needles), which undergo autoclaving before recycling.
- White Containers: For sharps like needles and blades, which are sterilized before disposal.
- Blue Boxes: For glassware that is disinfected or autoclaved.

How do these regulations aim to address environmental concerns?

The regulations aim to prevent environmental contamination by ensuring that biomedical waste is not mixed with general waste streams, thus reducing the risk of hazardous materials entering landfills or water bodies.
By regulating how medical waste is handled and disposed of, these laws protect public health and the occupational safety of healthcare workers who may be exposed to hazardous materials during their work.

What challenges exist in implementing these biomedical waste regulations?

Compliance Gaps: Despite established regulations, many healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas, struggle with compliance due to a lack of resources, training, or awareness about proper waste management practices.
Occupational Hazards: Healthcare professionals continue to face risks from improperly managed biomedical waste, which can lead to exposure to infectious materials and other hazardous substances.
Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate infrastructure for waste segregation and treatment remains a significant challenge in many regions of India, hindering the effective implementation of existing regulations.

Way forward:

Strengthen Infrastructure and Training: Invest in modern waste treatment facilities and ensure regular training programs for healthcare workers, particularly in rural areas, to enhance compliance with biomedical waste regulations.
Enforce Strict Monitoring and Penalties: Implement robust monitoring systems and impose penalties for non-compliance to ensure accountability and adherence to waste management standards across all healthcare facilities.

Mains PYQ:

Q What are the impediments in disposing of the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes which are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment? (UPSC IAS/2018)

November 29, 2024

[28th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Schooling in India in times of poor air quality

PYQ Relevance:

Q) Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata are the three Megacities of the country but air pollution is a much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? (UPSC CSE 2015)

Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously ‘constitutionalization of environmental problems’ (in 2022), and ‘pollution control and management’ (in 2013).

Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, with PM 2.5 concentrations soaring far above safe limits. The Supreme Court of India has mandated that schools in Delhi-NCR shift to online classes due to hazardous air quality levels.

Today’s editorial underscores the urgent need for effective policies to address both air pollution and its impact on education. This content can be used for recommending ‘Sustainable solutions’ while ensuring ‘Quality education’.

Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

The ongoing crisis of severe air pollution is affecting schools in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). Recent developments highlight the challenges faced by students and the educational system amid deteriorating air quality.

What are the health impacts of poor air quality on students and educators?

Respiratory Health Issues: Children exposed to pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can exacerbate asthma symptoms and trigger allergic reactions.
- Studies show that children exposed to high pollution levels are at a greater risk of developing these conditions than adults.
Cognitive Impairment: Research indicates that students in poorly ventilated classrooms perform worse on standardized tests compared to those in environments with better air quality. The cognitive deficits associated with air pollution can hinder problem-solving abilities and overall learning outcomes.
Increased Absenteeism: Students suffering from health issues related to air pollution are more likely to miss school, which disrupts their learning process. Increased absenteeism not only affects individual academic progress but can also impact overall classroom dynamics.
Psychological Effects: Concerns about health risks associated with poor air quality can lead to heightened stress and anxiety among students and educators. This psychological burden can further detract from the learning environment, making it less engaging and supportive

How has the Indian education system adapted to ongoing air quality challenges?

Shift to Hybrid Learning Models: In response to deteriorating air quality, schools in Delhi and surrounding NCR cities have transitioned to hybrid learning models.
- This approach combines online and physical classes, allowing students to attend lessons remotely when air quality is deemed hazardous.
Implementation Challenges: Despite the shift, schools face significant challenges in implementing hybrid models effectively. For instance, some principals have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of hybrid learning, citing past experiences where it did not meet educational standards. Logistical issues such as access to technology and internet connectivity remain barriers for many students, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Government Initiatives and Policies: Initiatives such as the National Clean Air Programme aim to reduce particulate matter levels across major cities, although implementation has been inconsistent.
- Educational frameworks are being updated to incorporate environmental education more robustly, addressing issues like climate change and pollution as part of the curriculum.
Long-term Educational Strategies: The National Curriculum Framework encourages teaching about environmental issues, including pollution and climate change, which can help raise awareness among students about air quality challenges and their implications for health and society.

What long-term implications does poor air quality have on cognitive performance?

General Impact on Cognitive Function: Research indicates that long-term exposure to air pollutants, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), is associated with a decline in cognitive function.
- A study involving over 25,000 participants found that higher levels of air pollution correlated with decreased performance in verbal and mathematical tests, particularly as individuals age.
- The negative effects were notably pronounced in older men with lower education levels, suggesting that chronic exposure can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities related to cognitive decline
Specific Cognitive Domains Affected: Different studies have shown that exposure to PM2.5 can lead to slower response times and lower throughput in cognitive tasks, with effects worsening with increased pollution levels.
- Semantic fluency tests have demonstrated significant declines in performance linked to air quality, reflecting broader implications for language processing and executive functions.
Neurodevelopmental Effects: Research has shown that even “safe” levels of air pollution can alter developmental patterns in young brains, potentially leading to long-term cognitive deficits. This is concerning as it suggests that early exposure may set the stage for lifelong cognitive challenges.
Increased Risk of Dementia and Cognitive Impairment: One study reported a hazard ratio indicating a 19% increased risk for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among those exposed to the highest levels of pollutants compared to those with lower exposure.
- This suggests that the cumulative effects of poor air quality not only impair immediate cognitive performance but also contribute to serious long-term health issues.

Way Forward: As India grapples with severe air quality issues, it is crucial for policymakers to ensure that all students have equitable access to education while safeguarding their health. The situation calls for a collaborative approach involving government agencies, educational institutions, and communities to develop sustainable solutions that can withstand future environmental crises.

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/schooling-in-india-in-times-of-poor-air-quality/article68918906.ece

November 28, 2024

[pib] India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)

Why in the News?

The Minister of State for Communications has provided crucial information about the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB).

About India Post Payments Bank (IPPB):

	Details
What is it?	Division of India Post under the Ministry of Communications, launched in 2018. Operates as payments bank.
Vision and Principles	• Objective: Promote financial inclusion by providing accessible and affordable financial services. • Customer-Centric: Focuses on delivering secure and affordable banking to rural and underserved areas.
Empowerment Initiatives by IPPB	• Financial Inclusion: Offers savings accounts, current accounts, money transfers, bill payments, and insurance. • Aadhaar-Linked Services: Implements Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) for easy and secure transactions. • Doorstep Banking: Provides banking services through 3 lakh postmen and Grameen Dak Sewaks. • Rapid Expansion: Reached 4 crore customers by December 2020 and crossed 8 crore customers by January 2022, with over 9 crore customers as of March 2024.

Back2Basics: Payments Bank

A payments bank operates like a regular bank but without credit risk.
It was set up based on the recommendations of the Nachiket Mor Committee.
Objective: To promote financial inclusion, especially in unbanked areas, serving migrant workers, low-income households, and small entrepreneurs.
Payments banks are registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act, 2013, and licensed under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
Governed by the Banking Regulation Act, RBI Act, 1934, and the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
Services Offered:

- - Minimum paid-up equity capital is Rs. 100 crores.
  - Can accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000 in savings and current accounts.
  - 75% of deposits must be invested in government securities (SLR), with the remaining 25% placed as time deposits with other scheduled commercial banks.
  - Offers remittance services, mobile payments, ATM/debit cards, net banking, and third-party fund transfers.
  - Act as a banking correspondent (BC) for credit and other services.
Limitations:

- Cannot issue loans or credit cards.
- Cannot accept time deposits or NRI deposits.
- Cannot set up subsidiaries for non-banking financial activities.

PYQ:

[2018] Which one of the following links all the ATMs in India?

(a) Indian banks’ Association

(b) National Securities Depository Limited

(d) Reserve Bank of India

November 28, 2024

[pib] Indian Chemical Council wins 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award

Why in the News?

The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) was honored with the prestigious Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), The Hague Award during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties.

Significance of the OPCW-The Hague Award

Purpose: The award recognizes contributions to advancing the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), focusing on chemical safety, disarmament, and global security.
- This year, the award was given to the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), the first chemical industry body to receive it, for its role in promoting chemical safety and CWC compliance.
Global Impact: The award emphasizes ICC’s work in collaboration with international bodies and advocacy for sustainable practices in chemical security.
Legacy: The OPCW, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, continues to honor impactful organizations and individuals contributing to the global disarmament agenda.

What is the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)?

	Details
What is it?	• CWC bans the development, use, and stockpiling of chemical weapons and mandates their destruction. • Genesis: Negotiations began in 1980. • Established: Opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and entered into force on April 29, 1997. • More comprehensive than the 1925 Geneva Protocol, which only banned the use of chemical weapons.
Structure and Functions	• Conference of States Parties (CSP): The main decision-making body, meeting annually. • Executive Council: 41-member body overseeing CWC implementation. • Technical Secretariat: Provides support for verification and compliance. • Verification: Inspects facilities and ensures compliance with the treaty.
Membership criteria and members	• Open to all nations: Any state can join if it meets requirements. • 193 States-Parties: Includes most nations. • Non-Signatories: Egypt, North Korea, and South Sudan have neither signed nor ratified the CWC.
Functioning Arm	• Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) implements the CWC, headquartered in The Hague. • Role: Oversees the destruction of chemical weapons and ensures treaty compliance. • Inspection: Conducts inspections of chemical facilities worldwide. • Awards: The OPCW won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in chemical weapons elimination.

PYQ:

[2016] With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements:

It is an organization of the European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

November 28, 2024

[pib] Schemes Implemented in Science and Technology

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Science and Technology, through its three key departments — Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) — is implementing various schemes to bolster the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem across India.

Schemes Implemented Under the Department of Science and Technology (DST)

Scheme	Objective	Key Components
Science and Technology (S&T) Institutional and Human Capacity Building (2015)	Enhance human resource development and institutional capacity in science and technology.	– Fellowships at various levels (undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, post-doctoral). – Establishment of sophisticated R&D facilities. – Capacity building for faculty.
Research and Development (R&D) (2009)	Support research in fundamental, applied, and translational sciences.	– Collaborative research with universities, government, and private sectors. – International research cooperation. – Focus on diverse sectors like health, energy, and IT.
Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment (2016)	Foster innovation and facilitate the development of new technologies for national development.	– Technology incubation centers. – Technology transfer and commercialization. – Support for startups and entrepreneurs.
National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) (2017)	Promote interdisciplinary research in Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) that integrate computational algorithms with physical processes.	– Development of CPS technologies (e.g., IoT, smart cities, advanced manufacturing). – Setting up innovation centers and testbeds for CPS.
National Quantum Mission (NQM) (2023)	Advance quantum technologies for solving national challenges in energy, communications, and security.	– Research in quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing. – Establishment of quantum technology hubs and research centers.

Schemes Implemented Under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT)

Scheme	Objective	Key Components
Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio-RIDE) (2017)	Foster innovation in biotechnology through research, industrial development, and entrepreneurship.	– Biotechnology R&D: Funding for research projects. – Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED): Support for biotech startups and industrial innovations. – Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry: Development of manufacturing and biotechnological production systems.

November 28, 2024

Central government scheme to promote natural farming launched

Why in the News?

Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the “National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)”, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme by the Agriculture Ministry to promote natural farming nationwide in mission mode.

What is Natural Farming?

Natural farming is defined by the Agriculture Ministry as a chemical-free agricultural system that relies solely on inputs derived from livestock and plant resources. This approach emphasizes the use of local agroecological principles and traditional knowledge, integrating crops, trees, and livestock to enhance biodiversity and soil health.
Aim: The goal is to rejuvenate soil quality while minimizing external inputs, thus reducing costs for farmers and promoting healthier food production.

How is the NMNF Different from Earlier Interventions?

The NMNF represents an evolution of previous initiatives, particularly the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP), which was launched in 2019.

Higher Budgetary Outlay: The NMNF has a total financial outlay of ₹2,481 crore, with ₹1,584 crore from the central government and ₹897 crore from states until 2025-26.
Targeting More Farmers: The mission aims to engage over one crore farmers, significantly expanding its reach compared to earlier efforts.
Establishment of Standards: It seeks to create scientifically supported standards and streamlined certification processes for naturally grown produce, along with a national brand for such products.

Why is it Necessary to Diversify the Farming Basket?

Environmental Sustainability: Reducing chemical inputs helps restore soil health and biodiversity, making agriculture more resilient to climate change.
Economic Viability: By promoting local inputs and reducing dependency on purchased fertilizers, farmers can lower their costs and increase their profitability.
Food Security: A diverse agricultural system can lead to improved food quality and nutritional security for communities.

Why a Mission on Natural Farming is Needed?

Excessive Fertilizer Use: The initiative targets districts with high fertiliser consumption, aiming to shift practices towards more sustainable methods that rejuvenate soil health and reduce environmental degradation.
Health Risks: By eliminating synthetic chemicals from farming, the mission aims to lower health risks associated with pesticide exposure for both farmers and consumers.
Climate Resilience: Natural farming practices enhance resilience against climate-related challenges such as droughts and floods by improving soil structure and water retention capabilities.

Way forward:

Policy and Infrastructure Support: Strengthen institutional frameworks by expanding Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs), offering financial incentives, and ensuring easy access to natural farming resources and certification systems.
Awareness and Capacity Building: Conduct large-scale training programs for farmers on natural farming practices, promote successful models through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and foster collaborations with agricultural universities for research and innovation.

Mains PYQ:

Q What is an Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India? (UPSC IAS/2022)

November 27, 2024

Cyclone Fengal

Why in the News?

A depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and is likely to further intensify into Cyclone Fengal.
- The system is currently close to an area with higher sea surface temperatures (SST), contributing to its potential intensification into a cyclonic storm.

Origin of the Name ‘Fengal’

The name ‘Fengal’ was proposed by Saudi Arabia and is rooted in Arabic.
It reflects a combination of linguistic tradition and cultural identity.

Cyclone Naming Process:

Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean are named by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) panel.
This panel includes 13 member countries, such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, among others.
- Each member country submits a list of potential cyclone names, and these names are used sequentially as cyclones form in the region.
- This system, in place since 2004, ensures easy identification and effective communication of storms to the public.

PYQ:

[2015] In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the main reason behind this?

(a) Sea Surface temperature are low

(b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs

(d) Absence of land in those regions

November 27, 2024

National Milk Day

Why in the News?

National Milk Day on November 26 commemorates the birth anniversary of ‘The Milkman of India’, Dr Verghese Kurien, who was credited with making India self-reliant in milk production.

About National Milk Day:

Details

• Observed on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien’s contributions to India’s dairy industry and the White Revolution.
• Celebrates India’s transformation into the world’s largest milk producer.

Contributions made by Varghese Kurien

• Born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
• Played a key role in establishing Amul (1949) and transforming it into a global dairy brand.
• Inaugural chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
• Led Operation Flood, which revolutionized India’s dairy industry and made it self-sufficient in milk production.
• Received numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963).

About the White Revolution and Milk Production in India

• Initiated in 1970 through Operation Flood to increase milk production and reduce dependence on milk powder imports.
• Empowered dairy farmers by promoting a cooperative-based model for milk production.
• By the late 1990s, India became the world’s largest milk producer, surpassing the US.
• Milk production grew threefold, from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55 million tonnes by 1991-92.
• Helped build the infrastructure for milk supply chains, processing plants, and storage facilities, making milk more accessible.
• Significantly improved the income and livelihood of rural farmers, boosting employment and economic development.

India is ranked 1st in milk production, contributing 24% of global milk production, reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23.

November 27, 2024

In news: Pennaiyar River

Why in the News?

The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to submit the report on the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka Pennaiyar River Water Dispute.

About Pennaiyar River

Origin and Geological Composition	• Also known as Thenpennai, originates on the eastern slope of Nandi Hills in Karnataka and flows through Tamil Nadu into the Bay of Bengal. • Length: 497 km (2nd longest in TN); Catchment area: 3,690 km². • 77% of the drainage basin lies in Tamil Nadu. • Bounded by the Velikonda, Nagari, Javadu, Shevaroy, Chitteri, and Kalrayan hills of the Eastern Ghats. • Lies in the tropical monsoon zone with monsoon (June–December) and non-monsoon (January–May) periods.
Tributaries	• Tributaries include Markandanadhi, Kambainallur, Pambar, Vaniyar, Kallar, Valayar Odai, Pambanar, Aliyar, Musukundanadhi, and Thurinjalar. • Supported by monsoonal rains and reservoirs like Kelavarapalli, Krishnagiri, and Sathanur Dams.
Important Sites along its Basin	• Mentioned in Sangam literature for its lush vegetation. • Important temples include Penneswaraar Temple, Dakshina Tirupati, Veerateshwarar Temple, and Kabilar Kundru. • Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is a key protected area near the river. • Used for irrigation in districts such as Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Viluppuram, and Cuddalore.

PYQ:

[2004] Assertion (A): West- flowing rivers of Peninsular India have no deltas:

Reason (R): These Rivers do not carry any alluvial sediments.

Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
A is true but R is false
A is false but R is true

November 27, 2024

NGT issues notice to Centre on expansion of Glacial Lakes

Why in the News?

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognizance of the alarming rise in the number of Himalayan glacial lakes due to rising temperatures, highlighting the growing risk of natural disasters like floods and landslides.

Central Water Commission’s (CWC) report on Glacial Lakes

Glacial lakes in the Himalayas have expanded by 10.81% in 13 years due to glacier melting caused by rising temperatures.
Between 2011 and 2024, India’s glacial lakes grew by 33.7%, highlighting the escalating threat.
The NGT noted that 67 lakes in India saw a surface area increase of over 40%, marking them as high-risk for GLOFs.
Key areas of expansion include Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.

About National Green Tribunal (NGT):

About

Establishment:

• Formed in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act as a statutory body.
• Aimed at addressing environmental issues and ensuring speedy implementation of decisions.
• Known for making significant decisions, including addressing air pollution in Delhi and cancelling coal block clearances.

Composition:

• Headquartered in Delhi.
• Chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge.
• Includes Judicial Members and Expert Panel.

Benches:

• Principal bench in Delhi.
• Additional benches in Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, and Chennai.

Powers and Functions of NGT

• Empowered to decide on cases related to various environmental laws and hear civil cases concerning environmental issues.
• Responsible for enforcement of:
– The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
– The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
– The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and more.Exceptions:

• Not authorized to hear cases under:
– The Indian Forest Act, 1927
– The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
– State laws related to the protection of trees, forests, etc.

Governing Principles:

• Governed by principles of natural justice, not bound by the Indian Evidence Act.
• Applies the principles of sustainable development, precautionary approach, and the polluter pays principle.

Review and Challenge:

• NGT orders can be reviewed under Rule 22 of NGT Rules.
• Orders can be challenged before the Supreme Court within ninety days.

PYQ:

[2018] How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?

1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.

2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

November 27, 2024