Environmental Acts — Set 5
Environment · पर्यावरण अधिनियम · Questions 41–50 of 60
Which Indian state was the first to implement a ban on plastic bags, leading to national policy changes?
Correct Answer: A. Sikkim
Sikkim became a pioneer by banning plastic water bottles and bags as early as 1998. This state-level initiative inspired the central government to frame stronger Plastic Waste Management Rules. It remains one of India's cleanest and most eco-friendly states.
The 'Hazardous and Other Wastes Rules, 2016' emphasize which of the following waste management hierarchies?
Correct Answer: C. Prevention and Recycling
The rules prioritize waste prevention and recycling over disposal in landfills or incineration. This hierarchy aims to minimize the generation of toxic waste at the source. It encourages industries to find ways to reuse waste materials as raw materials for other processes.
The 'Project Elephant' was launched by the Indian government in?
Correct Answer: C. 1992
The correct answer is '1992'. Project Elephant provides technical and financial assistance to 16 states for the protection of elephants. It focuses on the preservation of elephant corridors to prevent man-animal conflict. The elephant is officially designated as India's 'National Heritage Animal'.
Under the Air Act, 1981, which authority must be consulted before a state government can change an air pollution control area?
Correct Answer: B. State Pollution Control Board
State Governments can only declare or change pollution control areas after receiving advice from the SPCB. This ensures that the decision is based on scientific data regarding air quality. This collaborative approach is a key part of India's federal environmental administration.
Which act was amended in 1987 to include 'Noise' as a pollutant?
Correct Answer: B. Air Act
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was expanded in 1987 to regulate noise pollution. This allowed for the creation of specific Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules in the year 2000. It acknowledges that excessive sound is harmful to the human respiratory and nervous systems.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) consists of which of the following members?
Correct Answer: C. Judicial and Expert Members
The NGT is a multi-disciplinary body that includes both legal experts (Judges) and environmental experts. This ensures that cases are decided based on both law and environmental science. Each bench must have at least one member from each category.
The 'Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules' were first notified in India in?
Correct Answer: B. 2010
The 2010 rules were the first step toward a dedicated legal framework for wetland protection. They prohibit activities like reclamation and setting up industries within wetlands. Wetlands are vital for flood control and groundwater recharge.
The Supreme Court of India established the 'Precautionary Principle' through which famous case?
Correct Answer: B. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum case
In the Vellore Citizens case (1996), the court held that environmental protection takes priority over economic development if there is a threat of irreversible damage. The precautionary principle requires taking action even when there is no absolute scientific certainty of harm. This judgment is a milestone in Indian environmental law.
Which act provides the legal basis for 'Project Rhino' and the protection of One-horned Rhinoceros?
Correct Answer: B. Wildlife Protection Act
The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 lists the Rhinoceros under Schedule I, providing it with the highest degree of protection. This allows the government to deploy paramilitary forces like the Assam Forest Protection Force. Effective implementation of this act has helped the rhino population recover in Kaziranga.
The term 'Sovereign Rights' over biological resources is central to which Indian act?
Correct Answer: C. Biological Diversity Act
The Biological Diversity Act asserts that India has sovereign rights over its natural biological resources. This means no foreign entity can access Indian genetic resources without the approval of the National Biodiversity Authority. It protects India's interests in the global biotechnology industry.