From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CAQM
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its lack of concrete action to curb stubble burning in states neighboring Delhi.
Key issues as per SC:
- Non-Compliance and Ineffectiveness: The Supreme Court criticized the CAQM for failing to enforce the CAQM Act, highlighting a lack of concrete measures against stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana.
- Lack of Accountability: The Court questioned the CAQM’s accountability, emphasizing the need for concrete actions and consequences for officials who fail to enforce anti-pollution laws.
- Staffing and Representation Issues: The Court expressed concerns over staffing shortages in pollution control boards and inadequate representation in CAQM sub-committees, hindering effective operation.
- Scepticism on Pollution Reduction Claims: Despite claims of improved air quality and reduced stubble burning, the Court remained doubtful, citing ongoing instances of stubble burning and demanding detailed explanations from the CAQM.
About the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):
| Details | |
| Formation |
|
| Objective | To manage air quality in the NCR and adjoining areas comprehensively |
| Composition | Headed by a full-time chairperson, with members from various states, ministries, and sectors like agriculture, industry, transport, and construction |
| Powers | Authority to issue directions, inspect industries, entertain complaints, restrict industries, and shut down non-compliant units |
| Jurisdiction | National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan |
| Functions | Coordinates and monitors air quality, sets pollution control parameters, identifies violators, monitors industries, and can overrule state directives |
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 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 [2022]The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws. [2015] Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
