Environmental Rights Reforms

Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. In 2017, the Supreme Court of India held that the right to a healthy environment is an integral part of the right to life and personal liberty.

In the landmark case of M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987), the Supreme Court of India recognized the right to a clean environment as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a specialized environmental court in India established in 2010. Its main objective is to resolve environmental disputes and ensure the protection of the environment.

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 is the primary legislation in India for the prevention and control of air pollution. It empowers the Central and State Pollution Control Boards to regulate air pollution and take action against polluters.

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 is the primary legislation in India for the prevention and control of water pollution. It empowers the Central and State Pollution Control Boards to regulate water pollution and take action against polluters.

The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is a key legislation in India that regulates the use of forest land. Its main objective is to prevent the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes and to ensure the conservation of forests.

The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is the primary legislation in India for the protection and conservation of wildlife. It provides for the establishment of protected areas, regulates hunting and trade in wildlife, and prohibits the killing or capturing of endangered species.

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 is a comprehensive legislation in India that aims to protect the environment from pollution. It empowers the Central and State Pollution Control Boards to regulate pollution and take action against polluters.

The Hazardous Substances (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 are a set of regulations in India that govern the management and handling of hazardous substances. They aim to prevent accidents and minimize the risks associated with the use of hazardous substances.

The National Policy on Environmental Education (NPEE) in India aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote environmental education at all levels of education.

The Genetically Modified Organisms (Regulation) Act, 2008 is the primary legislation in India that regulates the use and release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It aims to ensure the safe and responsible use of GMOs and to protect the environment and human health.

The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011 is a set of regulations in India that govern the use and development of coastal areas. It aims to protect coastal ecosystems and prevent the degradation of coastal environments.

The National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) in India aims to conserve biodiversity and ensure its sustainable use. It provides a framework for action to protect and manage biodiversity at the national, state, and local levels.

The Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 are a set of regulations in India that govern the management of solid waste. They aim to reduce the generation of waste, promote waste segregation and recycling, and ensure the safe disposal of waste.

The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) in India aims to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga River. It is a comprehensive program that includes initiatives to reduce pollution, conserve biodiversity, and promote sustainable development in the Ganga basin.