Daily Current Affairs : 21-October-2023
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has recently taken a significant step towards combating air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). Starting from November 1, only electric, CNG, and BS-VI-compliant diesel buses will be permitted to operate between Delhi and parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. This move aligns with India’s Bharat Stage emission standards, reflecting the country’s commitment to environmental preservation and cleaner air.
Understanding Bharat Stage Emission Standards
Bharat Stage emission standards are essential guidelines implemented by the Indian government to regulate the emissions produced by motor vehicles, ensuring they meet specific environmental criteria. These standards are mandatory for vehicles to be legally sold and driven in India. Presently, all newly sold and registered vehicles in India must adhere to the BS-VI version of these emission standards. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, oversees the formulation and enforcement of these standards.
Evolution of Bharat Stage Norms
- The inception of these standards traces back to the year 2000 with the ‘India 2000’ standard, equivalent to the Euro-1 standard.
- Subsequent iterations included BS-II, BS-III, and BS-IV.
- India made a significant leap from BS-IV to BS-VI, bypassing BS-V due to the need for a faster transition, learning from past experiences.
Significance of Bharat Stage Standards
Bharat Stage standards play a pivotal role in various aspects:
- Air Quality Improvement: Motor vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution. BS standards reduce harmful emissions, leading to improved air quality. For instance, they decrease the concentration of Particulate Matter (PM) emissions.
- Health Protection: Cleaner air safeguards public health, reducing respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
- Global Alignment: Harmonizing with international automotive standards enhances India’s global standing in environmental conservation efforts.
- Technology Innovation: These standards drive the development of cleaner, fuel-efficient technologies, encouraging sustainable practices.
- Fuel Efficiency: Stricter standards promote reduced fuel consumption, leading to cost savings and decreased reliance on fossil fuels.
- Economic Growth: BS standards create opportunities for manufacturing and exporting eco-friendly vehicles, boosting economic growth in the green automotive sector.
- Legal Framework and Accountability: These standards hold automakers accountable, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
- Sustainability: Adhering to Bharat Stage standards supports long-term environmental and sustainability goals, fostering a greener future.
Important Points:
- Understanding Bharat Stage Emission Standards:
- Regulatory guidelines by Indian government for vehicle emissions.
- Mandatory for vehicles to be legally sold and driven in India.
- Current standard: BS-VI.
- Enforced by CPCB under the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
- Evolution of Bharat Stage Norms:
- Inception in 2000 with ‘India 2000’ standard (Euro-1 equivalent).
- Subsequent iterations: BS-II, BS-III, BS-IV.
- Leap from BS-IV to BS-VI, bypassing BS-V for faster transition.
- Significance of Bharat Stage Standards:
- Air Quality Improvement:
- Decreases harmful emissions, particularly Particulate Matter (PM).
- Health Protection:
- Cleaner air reduces respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
- Global Alignment:
- Harmonizes with international automotive standards.
- Technology Innovation:
- Encourages development of cleaner, fuel-efficient technologies.
- Fuel Efficiency:
- Stricter standards lead to reduced fuel consumption and cost savings.
- Economic Growth:
- Boosts manufacturing and export opportunities for eco-friendly vehicles.
- Legal Framework and Accountability:
- Holds automakers accountable and ensures compliance with regulations.
- Sustainability:
- Supports long-term environmental and sustainability goals.
- Air Quality Improvement:
Why In News
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) declared that starting from November 1, only electric, CNG, and BS-VI-compliant diesel buses will be permitted to operate between Delhi and parts of the National Capital Region located in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. This initiative aims to significantly reduce vehicular emissions and improve air quality in the region, promoting a greener and healthier environment for everyone.
MCQs about India’s Bharat Stage Standards
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What is the purpose of Bharat Stage Emission Standards in India?
A. To regulate food quality in restaurants
B. To ensure vehicles meet specific environmental standards
C. To control air conditioning emissions
D. To regulate water pollution in industrial areas
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Which organization oversees the formulation and enforcement of Bharat Stage Emission Standards in India?
A. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
B. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
C. Ministry of Education
D. Ministry of Transport and Highways
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Why did India bypass the BS-V standard during its transition to Bharat Stage Emission Standards?
A. To increase vehicle prices
B. To simplify the regulatory process
C. Due to the lengthy transition period observed in previous upgrades
D. To encourage fossil fuel consumption
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Apart from air quality improvement, what is another benefit of adhering to Bharat Stage Emission Standards?
A. Increased noise pollution
B. Higher maintenance costs for vehicles
C. Boosts manufacturing and export opportunities for eco-friendly vehicles
D. Decreased road congestion
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