NGT Directs Strict Measures Against Illegal Borewells to Protect Groundwater
NGT orders states to take swift action against illegal borewells to protect groundwater.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a directive to all states and Union Territories, ordering swift and stringent action against illegal borewells. This move comes in response to widespread groundwater depletion and contamination caused by unauthorized extraction.
The NGT emphasized the need for regular monitoring, enforcement of existing regulations, and imposition of environmental compensation on violators. This order underscores the NGT's role as a crucial environmental watchdog, pushing for sustainable water management and protection of vital natural resources.
Key Facts
NGT orders states/UTs to act against illegal borewells
Focus on groundwater depletion and contamination
Emphasizes monitoring, enforcement, environmental compensation
UPSC Exam Angles
Role, powers, and jurisdiction of the National Green Tribunal (NGT)
Groundwater management policies, laws, and institutional framework in India (e.g., Central Ground Water Authority, Model Bill)
Constitutional provisions related to water and environment (e.g., DPSP, Fundamental Duties, Seventh Schedule)
Environmental principles like 'Polluter Pays Principle' and 'Sustainable Development'
Causes and consequences of groundwater depletion and contamination
Inter-state water disputes and federal aspects of water governance
Visual Insights
Groundwater Stress Zones in India (2024-25)
This map illustrates states/regions in India facing critical to over-exploited groundwater conditions, which is the primary concern addressed by the NGT's directive against illegal borewells. The color coding indicates the severity of groundwater depletion.
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More Information
Background
Latest Developments
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the National Green Tribunal (NGT): 1. It was established under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. 2. Its orders are binding on all parties and can only be challenged before the Supreme Court. 3. It has original jurisdiction over civil cases involving substantial questions relating to the environment arising out of seven specific environmental laws. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect. The NGT was established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, not the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Statement 2 is correct; NGT's orders are binding and can be challenged before the Supreme Court within 90 days. Statement 3 is correct; NGT has original jurisdiction over civil cases related to seven specific environmental laws listed in Schedule I of the NGT Act.
2. In the context of groundwater management in India, which of the following statements is NOT correct?
- A.The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) was constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
- B.Water is primarily a State subject under the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
- C.The Model Bill for the Conservation, Protection, Regulation and Management of Groundwater, 2011, aims to promote community participation in groundwater management.
- D.The NGT's directives on groundwater extraction are advisory in nature and not legally enforceable without state government concurrence.
Show Answer
Answer: D
Statement D is incorrect. The NGT's directives and orders are legally binding and enforceable, and they do not require state government concurrence for their enforceability. The NGT has statutory powers to issue such directions. Statements A, B, and C are correct. CGWA was indeed constituted under Section 3(3) of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Water is a State subject, and the Model Bill promotes community involvement.
3. With reference to 'Environmental Compensation' in India, consider the following statements: 1. It is primarily based on the 'Polluter Pays Principle'. 2. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has the power to impose environmental compensation on polluters. 3. The collected compensation is exclusively used for the restoration of the damaged environment and not for any other purpose. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.2 only
- C.1 and 2 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are correct. The 'Polluter Pays Principle' is a fundamental principle of environmental law in India, upheld by the Supreme Court and applied by the NGT. The NGT, under the NGT Act, 2010, has explicit powers to impose environmental compensation for damages caused to the environment. The primary objective of such compensation is to restore the damaged environment and ecology, ensuring that the funds are utilized for environmental remediation.
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