Question

Which of the following Union Ministries introduced the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024, in the Parliament in February 2024?

• A. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare
• B. Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
• C. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• D. Ministry of Civil Aviation

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is the central government body responsible for environmental conservation and the development of policies related to it in India.
• In February 2024, this Ministry introduced the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024 in the Parliament.
• The primary objective of this bill is to amend the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

Key Aspects of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974:

• This landmark act was enacted to provide for the prevention and control of water pollution.
• It established the framework for the creation of Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) at both the central and state levels.
• These boards are tasked with various responsibilities, including advising central and state governments on matters related to water pollution, setting standards for water quality, and monitoring the quality of water bodies.

Significance of the Amendment Bill, 2024:

• The proposed amendments aim to strengthen the existing legislation, making it more effective in combating water pollution.
• Such legislative actions are crucial for environmental protection and aligning with India's commitment to sustainable development goals.
• Bills introduced by Union Ministries in Parliament are a fundamental part of the law-making process in India, undergoing debates, scrutiny, and voting before becoming an Act.