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 ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Why the answer is (b)
• Statement 2 is correct: the NGT (2010) is a specialised tribunal for speedy environmental justice that relieves the higher courts, while the CPCB's statutory functions are to promote cleanliness of streams and wells and improve air quality.
• Statement 1 is wrong: both are statutory bodies — the NGT under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 and the CPCB under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 (later also the Air Act, 1981); the CPCB was not created by executive order.
• Hence 2 only, option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Statement 1 is wrong: CPCB is a statutory body under the Water Act, 1974.
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- Statement 1 is wrong.
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Statement 2 is correct.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2018, held on 3 June 2018. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.