Question

UPSC Prelims 2022 Question:

Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986?

  1. 1. Central Water Commission
  2. 2. Central Ground Water Board
  3. 3. Central Ground Water Authority
  4. 4. National Water Development Agency

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3: Central Ground Water Authority

Detailed Solution

Learn more about the Environment Protection Act, 1986 in the given explanation below. 

Explanation:

Central Ground Water Authority has been constituted under Section 3 (3) of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to regulate and control development and management of ground water resources in the country. It issues necessary regulatory directions for the purpose. It exercises powers under the Act for the appointment of officers.

Environment Protection Act, 1986

  • The Environment (Protection) Act (EPA) was enacted in 1986 with the goal of safeguarding and enhancing the environment.
  • It empowers the Central Government to establish authorities tasked with preventing all forms of environmental pollution and addressing specific environmental issues unique to different regions of the country.
  • The EPA is one of the most comprehensive pieces of legislation aimed at protecting and improving the environment.
  • It was enacted under Article 253 of the Indian Constitution, which allows for the creation of laws to implement international treaties.
  • Article 48A of the Constitution mandates that the State strive to protect and improve the environment, as well as to safeguard the country's forests and wildlife.
  • Furthermore, Article 51A states that every citizen is responsible for protecting the environment.

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.

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