Current Affairs

Sign in
Polity and GovernanceGS2
GS2

NGT International Conference on Environment and Climate Dynamics

Source:PIB ↗

Why It Matters

The article touches upon the core components of India's environmental jurisprudence (NGT) and international climate commitments, making it directly relevant to GS Paper 3 (Conservation and Environmental Governance) and GS Paper 2 (Statutory Bodies).

Summary

The President of India addressed the valedictory session of the National Green Tribunal's International Conference on 'The Future of Environment and Climate Dynamics' in New Delhi, underscoring the significance of robust environmental governance, judicial mechanisms like the NGT, and India's steadfast commitment to global climate goals and sustainable practices.

Key Points

  • The President of India addressed the valedictory session of the NGT’s International Conference on 'The Future of Environment and Climate Dynamics' in New Delhi.
  • Highlighted the critical role of institutions like the NGT in balancing developmental imperatives with ecological conservation and environmental justice.
  • Emphasized India's commitment to climate action, sustainable development, and global leadership in renewable energy transitions.
  • Stressed the importance of judicial activism, public participation, and science-backed policymaking to address contemporary climate challenges.

Important Terms

National Green Tribunal (NGT)

A specialized judicial body established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and natural resources.

UPSC context

UPSC GS Paper III (Environment & Ecology, Conservation) and GS Paper II (Statutory Bodies & Governance). Tests understanding of environmental institutions and justice.

Source
National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

An Act of Parliament enacted in 2010 to establish a specialized environmental tribunal for handling civil cases relating to environmental laws, making India the third country globally to set up such a body.

UPSC context

UPSC GS Paper III (Environment & Ecology) and GS Paper II (Polity & Governance). Tests knowledge of statutory environmental legislation and judicial mechanisms.

Source

Static Concepts Connected

Environment Governance & Polity

What are the key statutory features, jurisdiction, and guiding principles of the National Green Tribunal (NGT)?

  • Statutory Origin: Established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, as a specialized body for effective and expeditious disposal of environmental cases.
  • Guiding Principles: Guided by principles of natural justice, the 'polluter pays' principle, and the precautionary principle; not bound by the Civil Procedure Code, 1908.
  • Jurisdiction Scope: Covers civil cases under seven specific environmental laws including the Water Act, Air Act, and Environment (Protection) Act, but notably excludes the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  • Timeline & Appeals: Mandated to dispose of applications and appeals within six months of filing, with orders appealable to the Supreme Court within 90 days.

Cross-Topic Patterns

  • NGT Jurisprudence & Article 21 Expansion

    The NGT's enforcement of the precautionary principle intersects directly with the Supreme Court's expanding interpretation of Article 21 (Right to a Clean Environment).

  • Domestic Tribunals & International Climate Commitments

    India's domestic environmental tribunal framework supports international treaty obligations under UNFCCC and biodiversity conventions by ensuring domestic judicial accountability.

NGT statutory provisions (exclusion of CPC, 6-month disposal timeline, specific statutes) are prime targets for prelims elimination traps.

Linked PYQs · 3

Linked PYQs · 3

  • 2018PrelimsGS1

    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?

  • 2022MainsGS3

    Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030 ? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective ? Explain.

  • 2025MainsGS3

    Write a review on India's climate commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015) and mention how these have been further strengthened in COP26 (2021). In this direction, how has the first Nationally Determined Contribution intended by India been updated in 2022?