Daily Current Affairs : 29-March-2024
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) plays an essential role in safeguarding India’s surroundings. This statutory organization, set up in September 1974, has a significant obligation for controlling pollution and promoting environmental health. Despite gathering significant funds for environmental protection, the utilization of these finances raises concerns.
Funds Collected and Their Usage
Recently, the CPCB has accumulated over Rs 777 crore in two fundamental categories:
- Environment Protection Charge (EPC): This charge is a one percent fee imposed on certain new diesel automobiles registered in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). It was mandated by the Supreme Court to deter pollution from diesel vehicles.
- Environmental Compensation (EC): This is collected based on the “Polluter Pays Principle,” as directed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The EC is intended for various environmental measures, including:
- Strengthening laboratories
- Enhancing monitoring networks
- Implementing orders from the NGT
- Building capacity for pollution control boards
However, only approximately Rs 156 crore, which is roughly 20% of the total funds collected, has been utilized. This low utilization rate is concerning and calls for better management and allocation of resources.
About the CPCB
The CPCB is not just a regulatory body; it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the cleanliness of India’s water and air. Here are a few key points about its functions:
- Established under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- Gained additional powers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
- Works under the Ministry of Environment and Forests
- Promotes the cleanliness of water bodies and air quality across the country
Important Points:
CPCB Overview:
- Established in September 1974.
- Statutory organization responsible for pollution control and environmental health.
Funds Collected:
- Over Rs 777 crore gathered in two categories:
- Environment Protection Charge (EPC):
- One percent charge on new diesel vehicles in Delhi and NCR.
- Mandated by the Supreme Court to reduce diesel pollution.
- Environmental Compensation (EC):
- Based on the “Polluter Pays Principle.”
- Funded for various environmental initiatives.
- Environment Protection Charge (EPC):
Utilization Concerns:
- Only Rs 156 crore (about 20%) of the funds have been utilized.
- Low utilization raises concerns about resource management.
Key Functions of CPCB:
- Promotes water and air quality.
- Operates under the Water and Air Pollution Control Acts.
- Works with the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
Call for Improvement:
- Need for better allocation and management of environmental funds.
- Importance of enhancing efficiency to combat pollution effectively.
Why In News
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has collected over Rs 777 crore in environment protection charge (EPC) and environmental compensation (EC) funds; however, only about Rs 156 crore, or 20%, has been utilized, raising concerns about the effectiveness of fund allocation in addressing pressing environmental issues.
MCQs about CPCB’s Role and Challenges in Environmental Protection
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What is the main purpose of the Environment Protection Charge (EPC) collected by the CPCB?
A. To promote electric vehicle usage
B. To deter pollution from diesel vehicles
C. To fund renewable energy projects
D. To support public transportation
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What principle underlies the Environmental Compensation (EC) collected by the CPCB?
A. Polluter Pays Principle
B. User Pays Principle
C. Public Benefit Principle
D. Renewable Resource Principle
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Which of the following is NOT a function of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?
A. Promoting air quality
B. Conducting criminal investigations
C. Strengthening monitoring networks
D. Implementing NGT orders
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