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DETAILED SYLLABUS

Basic of Environmental Sciences, Functions of CPCB, Environmental GK

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Detailed Syllabus

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 Detailed Syllabus

Climate Change & Global Warming

Greenhouse gases
Causes and effects of global warming
International agreements (Kyoto, Paris, COPs)
IPCC reports

Environmental Organizations and Institutions

National International
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change UN Environment Programme (UNEP)
Central & State Pollution Control Board WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature)
Botanical & Zoological Survey of India Greenpeace
National Green Tribunal (NGT) Conservation International
Wildlife Institute of India (WII) IPCC
Forest Survey of India (FSI)
NEERI, BSI

Current Environmental Issues and Developments

 Recent environmental news, reports, and indices (e.g., Environmental Performance Index).
 Government initiatives and schemes related to environment (e.g., National Clean Air Programme, Jal
Jeevan Mission, Green India Mission).
 Emerging environmental challenges (e.g., microplastics, synthetic biology, geoengineering).
 Case studies of environmental success stories and failures in India.

Environmental Movements in India Sustainable Development & SDGs

Chipko Movement, Narmada Bachao Andolan, Definition and principles
Save Silent Valley. Campaigns: Namami Gange, Jal UN Sustainable Development Goals (17 SDGs)
Shakti Abhiyan Role of India in promoting sustainability
Eco-friendly technologies

Environmental Acts & Policies (India Focused) Energy Resources

Environment Protection Act, 1986 Fossil fuels: Coal, petroleum, natural gas
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (environmental impacts).
Water and Air Acts Renewable energy sources: Solar, wind, hydro,
Forest Conservation Act geothermal, biomass, tidal energy (potential and
Role of NGT and CPCB environmental benefits).
Nuclear energy.

Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

ISO 14000 series Concept, objectives, and stages
Environmental auditing Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Risk assessment

Global Environmental Issues

Climate Change, Ozone Layer Depletion, Acid Rain and Smog, Desertification and Land Degradation, Ocean
Acidification, Emerging Environmental Challenges, GIS & Remote Sensing

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BEST QUESTIONS
Covering Entire Syllabus

First Document

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 QUESTIONS

Q1. Which greenhouse gas has the highest global warming potential (GWP) over a 100-year period
according to the IPCC's AR6 report?
(a) Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
(b) Methane (CH₄)
(c) Nitrous oxide (N₂O)
(d) Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆)

Answer: (d) Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆)

Explanation:
Global Warming Potential (GWP) measures how much energy 1 ton of a gas will absorb over a given
period compared to 1 ton of CO₂.
 CO₂: GWP = 1
 CH₄: GWP ≈ 27-30
 N₂O: GWP ≈ 273
 SF₆: GWP ≈ 23,500, Thus, SF₆ has the highest GWP.

Q2. Which of the following gases is NOT a direct greenhouse gas but contributes indirectly to global
warming?
(a) Ozone (O₃)
(b) Water vapor (H₂O)
(c) Carbon monoxide (CO)
(d) Methane (CH₄)

Answer: (c) Carbon monoxide (CO)

Explanation:
CO itself is not a significant greenhouse gas but affects greenhouse gas concentrations by altering
methane and ozone levels indirectly, hence influencing global warming.

Q3. Which sector contributes the most to anthropogenic (human-caused) greenhouse gas emissions
globally as per the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report?
(a) Agriculture, Forestry, and Other Land Use (AFOLU)
(b) Energy supply (Electricity and Heat production)
(c) Industry
(d) Transportation

Answer: (b) Energy supply (Electricity and Heat production)

Explanation:
Energy supply remains the largest contributor due to fossil fuel combustion. Globally, it accounts for
around 25-30% of GHG emissions.

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Q4. Which of the following is a positive feedback mechanism in global warming?
(a) Increased cloud cover reflecting sunlight
(b) Melting permafrost releasing methane
(c) Reforestation increasing carbon sequestration
(d) Aerosol emissions reflecting solar radiation

Answer: (b) Melting permafrost releasing methane

Explanation:
 Positive feedback: Enhances the original process.
 Melting permafrost releases methane, a potent GHG, further accelerating warming.

Q5. Which mechanism was introduced under the Kyoto Protocol to allow industrialized countries to
invest in emission reduction projects in developing countries?
(a) Joint Implementation (JI)
(b) Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)
(c) Emissions Trading System (ETS)
(d) REDD+

Answer: (b) Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)

Explanation:
CDM allows Annex I (industrialized) countries to invest in projects that reduce emissions in developing
countries and earn certified emission reduction (CER) credits.

Q6. The Paris Agreement aims to limit global temperature rise to:
(a) 2°C above pre-industrial levels
(b) Well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels
(c) 3°C above pre-industrial levels
(d) No specific temperature target

Answer: (b) Well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels
Explanation:
The Paris Agreement (2015) set the target to limit the rise well below 2°C and to pursue efforts to limit
it to 1.5°C.

Q7. At COP27 (2022), what major breakthrough was achieved regarding climate finance?
(a) Doubling of adaptation finance
(b) Loss and Damage Fund establishment
(c) Mandatory carbon pricing
(d) Global carbon neutrality pact

Answer: (b) Loss and Damage Fund establishment

Explanation:
COP27 (Sharm El-Sheikh) saw the historic establishment of a Loss and Damage Fund to assist
developing countries facing adverse effects of climate change.

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Q8. According to the IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report (2023), what is the likely global temperature rise
under current policies by 2100?
(a) 1.5°C
(b) 2.1-2.8°C
(c) 3.0-3.5°C
(d) 4.0°C

Answer: (b) 2.1-2.8°C

Explanation:
Current policies are projected to result in a temperature rise of 2.1–2.8°C by 2100, far above the 1.5°C
target.

Q9. The term "climate tipping point" as discussed in IPCC reports refers to:
(a) The maximum carrying capacity of ecosystems
(b) The point where climate impacts become irreversible
(c) The maximum temperature the earth can withstand
(d) The point where all emissions must stop immediately

Answer: (b) The point where climate impacts become irreversible

Explanation:
Tipping points are thresholds beyond which a system shifts to a different state, e.g., ice sheet collapse
or Amazon forest dieback, with significant and irreversible effects.

Q10. According to IPCC AR6 WG1, what is the estimated carbon budget left for a 67% chance to limit
warming to 1.5°C?
(a) 400 GtCO₂
(b) 500 GtCO₂
(c) 1000 GtCO₂
(d) 2000 GtCO₂

Answer: (a) 400 GtCO₂

Explanation:
The remaining carbon budget is approximately 400 GtCO₂ (gigatonnes of CO₂) to have a 67% chance
of limiting warming to 1.5°C.

Q11. Which of the following are major greenhouse gases responsible for global warming?
(1) Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
(2) Nitrous oxide (N₂O)
(3) Ozone (O₃)
(4) Ammonia (NH₃)
(a) (1), (2)
(b) (1), (2), (3)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (3), (4)

Answer: (b) (1), (2), (3)

Explanation:
 CO₂ and N₂O are strong GHGs.
 Tropospheric Ozone (O₃) is also a secondary GHG.
 Ammonia (NH₃) is not classified as a direct greenhouse gas.

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Q12. Identify the direct consequences of global warming:
(1) Sea level rise
(2) Ocean acidification
(3) Increased frequency of extreme weather events
(4) Reduction of stratospheric ozone
(a) (1), (2)
(b) (1), (3)
(c) (1), (2), (3)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (c) (1), (2), (3)

Explanation:
 Sea level rise, extreme weather, and ocean acidification are direct effects.
 Reduction of stratospheric ozone is mainly related to CFCs (Ozone Depletion), not directly
global warming.

Q13. Which of the following human activities contribute significantly to GHG emissions?
(1) Fossil fuel combustion
(2) Industrial agriculture practices
(3) Deforestation
(4) Nuclear energy production

(a) (1), (2), (3)

(b) (1), (2)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

Explanation:
(1) Fossil fuels → CO₂
(2) Agriculture → CH₄, N₂O
(3) Deforestation → CO₂ release
(4) Nuclear energy → very low GHG emissions.

Q14. The Kyoto Protocol includes which of the following mechanisms to reduce GHG emissions?
(1) Emissions Trading (ET)
(2) Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)
(3) Joint Implementation (JI)
(4) Sustainable Development Mechanism (SDM)

(a) (1), (2), (3)

(b) (1), (3), (4)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

Explanation:
 Kyoto Protocol includes ET, CDM, and JI.
 SDM is a mechanism discussed under the Paris Agreement, not Kyoto.

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Q15. Under the Paris Agreement, countries must:
(1) Submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
(2) Aim for net-zero emissions by mid-century
(3) Allow mandatory penalties for missing targets
(4) Participate in a Global Stocktake every 5 years

(a) (1), (2), (3)

(b) (1), (2), (4)
(c) (1), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (b) (1), (2), (4)

Explanation:
 NDCs and net-zero targets are key features.
 Global Stocktake is a 5-yearly review.
 Paris Agreement is non-punitive — it has no penalties.

Q16. According to the IPCC AR6, which of the following are considered Key Risks due to climate
change?
(1) Food insecurity
(2) Biodiversity loss
(3) Water scarcity
(4) Increased nuclear conflict risks
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (1), (3), (4)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

Explanation:
(1) Food insecurity, (2) Biodiversity loss, and (3) Water scarcity are direct risks from climate impacts.
(4) Increased nuclear conflict risk is not discussed as a direct climate risk by IPCC.

Q17. Which of the following statements are correct about the carbon budget for limiting warming
to 1.5°C?
(1) It is shrinking rapidly due to ongoing emissions
(2) It refers to the total cumulative CO₂ that can still be emitted
(3) It varies depending on the probability level (likelihood) chosen
(4) It is more generous for lower GDP countries
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (1), (3), (4)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

Explanation:
 The carbon budget is shrinking fast.
 It is the total cumulative CO₂ emissions limit.
 Budgets are calculated for different probability thresholds (e.g., 67%, 50%).
 Carbon budget does not vary by country GDP; it’s a global limit.

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Q18. Which of the following feedback mechanisms are positive feedback loops in climate science?
(1) Ice-Albedo Feedback
(2) Methane release from thawing permafrost
(3) Increase in aerosols from volcanic eruptions
(4) Forest dieback in the Amazon
(a) (1), (2), (4)
(b) (1), (2), (3)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (4)

Explanation:
 Ice-Albedo Feedback: Ice melts → less reflection → more warming.
 Methane release: More GHGs → more warming.
 Amazon dieback: Reduces carbon sink capacity.
 Volcanic aerosols cause cooling, negative feedback.

Q19. Which of the following are binding agreements under international climate law?
(1) Kyoto Protocol
(2) Paris Agreement
(3) Montreal Protocol
(4) Glasgow Climate Pact
(a) (1), (3)
(b) (1), (2)
(c) (2), (3)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (3)

Explanation:
 Kyoto Protocol: Legally binding emission targets for developed nations.
 Montreal Protocol: Binding for phasing out ozone-depleting substances.
 Paris Agreement is non-binding (voluntary NDCs).
 Glasgow Climate Pact (COP26) is political, not a binding treaty.

Q20. As per IPCC AR6, limiting warming to 1.5°C requires:

(1) Rapid and deep GHG emissions reductions
(2) Large-scale deployment of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies
(3) Complete phase-out of coal
(4) Immediate banning of all fossil fuels
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (2), (3), (4)
(c) (1), (2), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

Explanation:
 IPCC recommends rapid emission cuts and CDR deployment.
 Phase-out of coal is needed.
 However, an immediate total ban on fossil fuels is not mandated — gradual reductions are
proposed.

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 LEARNING CONTENT

1. Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)

Greenhouse gases are atmospheric gases that absorb and emit infrared radiation, leading to the
greenhouse effect, which warms Earth’s surface.

Major GHGs:

Key Concepts:
 Global Warming Potential (GWP): Relative measure of how much heat a GHG traps compared
to CO₂.
 Primary GHGs: CO₂, CH₄, N₂O.
 Indirect GHGs: Carbon monoxide (CO) affects CH₄, O₃ levels indirectly.

2. Causes and Effects of Global Warming

Causes:
 Natural Causes: Volcanic eruptions, solar variations, natural GHGs.
 Anthropogenic Causes:
 Fossil fuel combustion (CO₂)
 Deforestation
 Industrial processes (cement, steel)
 Agriculture (methane from cattle, nitrous oxide from fertilizers)
 Waste management (landfills → CH₄)

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 Effects:
 Temperature Rise: Global mean surface temperature ↑ by ~1.1°C since pre-industrial times.
 Sea Level Rise: Due to thermal expansion, glacier, and ice sheet melting.
 Extreme Weather: Heatwaves, droughts, hurricanes, wildfires intensify.
 Ecosystem Disruption: Coral bleaching, species extinction.
 Ocean Acidification: CO₂ dissolves in seawater → lowers pH.
 Positive Feedbacks: Melting permafrost releases CH₄ → accelerates warming.

Important Feedback Loops:

3. International Agreements
Kyoto Protocol (1997)
 Objective: Legally binding GHG reduction for developed countries.
 Commitment Periods:
 1st (2008–2012)
 2nd (Doha Amendment, 2013–2020)
Mechanisms:
 CDM (Clean Development Mechanism): Invest in emission reduction projects in developing
countries.
 JI (Joint Implementation): Projects in other developed countries.
 ETS (Emissions Trading System): Carbon markets.

Paris Agreement (2015)

 Objective: Limit warming well below 2°C; pursue efforts for 1.5°C.
 Features:
 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) — self-set goals.
 Global Stocktake every 5 years.
 Climate finance: Developed countries to mobilize $100 billion/year by 2020 (extended).
 No penalties for non-compliance.
 Conference of the Parties (COPs)
Annual meetings under the UNFCCC.
 Key COPs:
 COP3 (Kyoto Protocol)
 COP21 (Paris Agreement)
 COP26 (Glasgow Climate Pact)
 COP27 (Loss and Damage Fund)

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4. IPCC Reports
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC):
 Established: 1988 by WMO & UNEP.
 Objective: Provide scientific assessments on climate change.

Assessment Reports (ARs):

 AR5 (2014):
"Human influence on the climate system is clear."
 AR6 (2021–2023):
 Global temperature rise: ~1.1°C (2021).
 Current policies project 2.1–2.8°C warming by 2100.
 Carbon Budget for 67% chance of 1.5°C: ~400 GtCO₂ remaining.
 Urgent call for:
 Net-zero CO₂ emissions by ~2050.
 Large-scale CDR (Carbon Dioxide Removal) techs (e.g., afforestation, DAC).
 Rapid decarbonization across all sectors.
 Special Reports:
 SR1.5 (2018): Global Warming of 1.5°C — Impacts of 1.5°C vs. 2°C warming.
 SRCCL (2019): Climate Change and Land.
 SROCC (2019): Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate.

Key Concepts:
Climate Tipping Points: Thresholds beyond which changes become irreversible (e.g., Greenland ice
sheet collapse).
 Mitigation vs Adaptation:
 Mitigation: Emission cuts.
 Adaptation: Adjusting to impacts.

SUMMARY

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Q21. Which of the following are major divisions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change?
(1) Forest Conservation Division
(2) National Biodiversity Authority Division
(3) Climate Change Division
(4) Animal Husbandry Division
(a) (1) and (2)
(b) (1), (2), and (3)
(c) (1), (3)
(d) (2), (4)

Answer: (c) (1), (3)

Explanation:
 Forest Conservation Division and Climate Change Division are key functional divisions under
MoEFCC.
 National Biodiversity Authority is a statutory autonomous body under MoEFCC, not a division.
 Animal Husbandry comes under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.

Q22. Which of the following Acts are administered by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change?
(1) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
(2) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
(3) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
(4) Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
(a) (1), (2), (4)
(b) (2), (3), (4)
(c) (1), (2), (3)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (4)

Explanation:
 Environment (Protection) Act, Wildlife (Protection) Act, and Forest (Conservation) Act are
directly under MoEFCC.
 Water Act, 1974 is mainly implemented via CPCB/SPCBs under a different administrative setup.
 Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) & State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)

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Q23. Which of the following are statutory functions of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?
(1) Laying down standards for air and water quality
(2) Coordinating activities of SPCBs
(3) Issuing Forest Clearance certificates
(4) Advising the Central Government on pollution matters
(a) (1), (2), (4)
(b) (1), (2), (3)
(c) (1), (3), (4)
(d) (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (4)

Explanation:
 CPCB is tasked with laying down environmental quality standards, coordinating with SPCBs,
and advising the Central Government.
 Forest Clearance is handled by MoEFCC, not CPCB.

Q24. Match the following Pollution Control Programmes with their focus areas:
Programme Focus
(A) NAMP (1) Water quality monitoring
(B) NWMP (2) Noise pollution abatement
(C) NRAP (3) Air quality monitoring
(D) Noise Monitoring Scheme (4) Action plan for non-attainment cities
Options:
(a) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
(b) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
(c) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
(d) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4

Answer: (a) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2

Explanation:
 NAMP: National Air Quality Monitoring Programme → Air quality monitoring.
 NWMP: National Water Quality Monitoring Programme → Water quality monitoring.
 NRAP: National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) → Non-attainment city action plans.
 Noise Monitoring Scheme: Noise pollution.

Q25. Which of the following are correct about the Botanical Survey of India (BSI)?
(1) Established in 1890.
(2) Headquarters at Dehradun.
(3) Primary responsibility: Survey of plant diversity.
(4) It publishes the Flora of India.
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (1), (3), (4)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (b) (1), (3), (4)

Explanation:
 Established: 1890.
 Headquarters: Kolkata (not Dehradun).
 Flora of India and plant documentation are key responsibilities.

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Q26. Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is known for:
(1) Maintaining the Red Data Book on Indian Animals
(2) Conducting faunal surveys and studies
(3) Preparing National Biodiversity Action Plan
(4) Formulating National Wildlife Action Plan
(a) (1) and (2)
(b) (2) and (3)
(c) (1), (2), and (3)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1) and (2)

Explanation:
 ZSI prepares the Red Data Book and conducts faunal studies.
 National Biodiversity Action Plan and Wildlife Action Plan are MoEFCC initiatives.

Q27. The National Green Tribunal was established under which Act?
(a) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
(b) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
(c) Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
(d) National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

Answer: (d) National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

The NGT was established specifically under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 for expeditious
disposal of environmental cases.

Q28. Which of the following powers are vested in the National Green Tribunal?
(1) Adjudication of environmental disputes involving multi-disciplinary issues
(2) Providing relief and compensation for environmental damage
(3) Issuing policy guidelines for environmental protection
(4) Implementing environmental laws directly
(a) (1) and (2)
(b) (1), (2), and (3)
(c) (1), (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1) and (2)

 NGT adjudicates disputes and awards compensation.
 Issuing policy guidelines and direct law implementation are the work of the Executive, not the
Tribunal.

Q29. Under the NGT Act, what is the maximum time limit within which the Tribunal should dispose
of cases?
(a) 3 months
(b) 6 months
(c) 1 year
(d) No time limit
Answer: (b) 6 months
The NGT Act, 2010 mandates that the Tribunal should endeavor to dispose of cases within 6 months
from the date of filing.

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Q30. In which year was the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change renamed to include
Climate Change in its title?
(a) 2006
(b) 2010
(c) 2014
(d) 2017

Answer: (c) 2014

The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) was renamed to Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change (MoEFCC) in 2014 to reflect India's growing emphasis on climate-related policies.

Q31. Which of the following initiatives is directly coordinated by MoEFCC?

(a) Smart Cities Mission
(b) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
(c) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
(d) Namami Gange Programme

Answer: (b) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

 NAPCC (2008) was formulated under the MoEFCC to address climate change challenges via
missions like Solar Mission, Energy Efficiency, and Sustainable Agriculture.
 Other programs are under the Ministry of Urban Affairs or Ministry of Jal Shakti.

Q32. Which Act led to the establishment of the Central Pollution Control Board?
(a) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
(b) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
(c) Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
(d) National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

Answer: (a) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

The CPCB was initially constituted under the Water Act of 1974, and later given additional powers
under the Air Act, 1981 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

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Q33. The National Air Quality Index (AQI) in India measures which of the following pollutants?
(1) PM2.5
(2) PM10
(3) NO₂
(4) SO₂
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (1), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1) and (2) only

Answer: (c) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

The National AQI launched by CPCB monitors PM2.5, PM10, NO₂, SO₂, CO, O₃, NH₃, and Pb as core
pollutants.

Q34. What is the primary mandate of the Botanical Survey of India (BSI)?
(a) Study of endangered animal species
(b) Conservation of plant genetic resources
(c) Survey, research, and documentation of plant resources
(d) Management of zoological parks

Answer: (c) Survey, research, and documentation of plant resources

BSI's primary role is to survey the plant diversity of India, document it, and support biodiversity
conservation. It does not deal with zoological parks or animal studies — that's ZSI’s domain.

Q35. The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) publishes which important national database?
(a) Flora of India
(b) Red Data Book on Indian Animals
(c) Indian Wildlife Yearbook
(d) Forest Survey of India Report

Answer: (b) Red Data Book on Indian Animals

 ZSI publishes the Red Data Book on Indian Animals, which documents species at risk of
extinction in India.
 Flora of India is by BSI.
 FSI Report is by the Forest Survey of India (FSI).

Q36. Which of the following correctly describes the National Green Tribunal (NGT)?
(a) It has original jurisdiction over all environmental issues.
(b) It can impose criminal penalties.
(c) It follows the principle of Polluter Pays.
(d) It has appellate jurisdiction only.

Answer: (c) It follows the principle of Polluter Pays.

 NGT strongly adheres to Polluter Pays, Precautionary Principle, and Sustainable Development.
 It has original jurisdiction but cannot impose criminal penalties (only civil compensation,
fines).
 It hears original applications and appeals.

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 LEARNING CONTENT

1. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

Overview:
 Established: 1985 (as MoEF), renamed MoEFCC in 2014 to emphasize Climate Change.
 Headquarters: New Delhi.
 Mandate: Policy formulation, planning, promotion, coordination, and overseeing the
implementation of India's environmental and forestry programs.

Major Functions:
 Conservation and survey of flora, fauna, forests, and wildlife.
 Prevention and control of pollution.
 Environmental impact assessment.
 Afforestation and regeneration of degraded areas.
 Implementation of international conventions (e.g., CBD, UNFCCC, UNCCD).
 Important Laws Administered:
 Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
 Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
 Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
 Biological Diversity Act, 2002

Key Initiatives:
 National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) — 8 Missions (Solar, Energy Efficiency, etc.)
 National Electric Mobility Mission (via FAME India)
 National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC)
 National Green India Mission
 Project Tiger (via NTCA)
 National Afforestation Programme
 Autonomous Bodies under MoEFCC:
 National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)
 Central Zoo Authority (CZA)
 Forest Survey of India (FSI)
 Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

21
2. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

Overview:
 Established: 1974 under Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
 Also empowered under: Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and Environment
(Protection) Act, 1986.
 Headquarters: New Delhi.

Key Functions:
 Advise Central Government on matters related to pollution.
 Coordinate activities of SPCBs.
 Lay down standards for water, air quality.
 Conduct monitoring of environmental quality (air, water, noise).
 Promote research in pollution control.
 Implement National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP), Water Quality Monitoring.

Important Programs:
 NAMP — National Air Monitoring Programme.
 NWMP — National Water Monitoring Programme.
 NRAP/NCAP — National Clean Air Programme (for non-attainment cities).
 Pollution Index — ranking industries based on their environmental performance.
 National Air Quality Index (AQI)
 State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs):
 Established under Water Act, 1974.
 Implementation of laws at state level.
 Issue Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) to industries.

3. Botanical Survey of India (BSI) & Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)

Botanical Survey of India (BSI)

Overview:
 Established: 1890 (formally reorganized in 1954).
 Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal.
 Under: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

Objectives:
 Survey and documentation of the plant resources of the country.
 Preparation of a comprehensive flora of India.
 Conservation of endangered plant species.
 Serve as a repository of botanical information.

Key Publications:
 Flora of India
 Red Data Book of Indian Plants (endangered species listing)

22
 Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
Overview:
 Established: 1916.
 Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal.
 Under: MoEFCC.
Objectives:
 Survey, research, and documentation of the faunal resources of India.
 Red Listing and conservation status of animals.
 Collection and maintenance of zoological specimens.
 Studies on threatened and endangered species.

Key Publications:
 Red Data Book on Indian Animals
 Fauna of India Series

4. National Green Tribunal (NGT)

Overview:
 Established: 2010.
 Act: National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
 Headquarters: New Delhi.
 Purpose: Effective and expeditious disposal of cases related to environmental protection and
conservation of forests and other natural resources.

Structure:
 Chairperson (retired Judge of Supreme Court)
 Judicial Members
 Expert Members
Key Features:
 Specialized judicial body for environmental cases.
 Principles followed:
 Sustainable Development
 Precautionary Principle
 Polluter Pays Principle
Jurisdiction:
 Original jurisdiction over matters covered under:
 The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
 The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
 The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
 The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
 The Biological Diversity Act, 2002
Benches:
 Principal Bench: New Delhi
 Zonal Benches: Kolkata, Pune, Bhopal, Chennai

Powers:
 Relief and compensation to victims of pollution.
 Damages to ecosystems.
 No criminal penalties (civil jurisdiction only).

23
 Roles & Responsibilities

 MoEFCC frames policies and coordinates environment and climate change activities.
 CPCB/SPCBs implement pollution control and monitor air and water quality.
 BSI/ZSI conduct biodiversity surveys for plants and animals respectively.
 NGT provides legal remedy and speedy resolution of environmental disputes based on
sustainability principles.

SUMMARY

24
Q37. The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is located in which city?
(a) Bhopal
(b) Dehradun
(c) Bengaluru
(d) New Delhi

Answer: (b) Dehradun

Explanation:
The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is a premier institution in
wildlife research and management training.

Q38. Which of the following major activities are carried out by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII)?
(1) Training of forest officers in wildlife management
(2) Research on endangered species and habitats
(3) Implementation of the Project Tiger
(4) Publishing Status of Tigers in India reports
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (1), (3), and (4)
(c) (2) and (3)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)

Explanation:
 WII provides training to forest officers.
 Conducts research on wildlife, endangered species, and ecology.
 NTCA (National Tiger Conservation Authority) under MoEFCC implements Project Tiger, not
WII.
 WII is instrumental in preparing the Status of Tigers in India reports based on All India Tiger
Estimation surveys.

Q39. What is the primary mandate of the Forest Survey of India (FSI)?
(a) Protection of tiger habitats
(b) Scientific mapping of forest cover
(c) Promotion of agroforestry
(d) Management of biosphere reserves

Answer: (b) Scientific mapping of forest cover

Explanation:
The Forest Survey of India (FSI), under MoEFCC, conducts scientific forest surveys and publishes the
India State of Forest Report (ISFR) biennially to assess forest cover, growing stock, and forest types in
India.

25
Q40. The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) is published by FSI every:
(a) Year
(b) Two years
(c) Three years
(d) Five years

Answer: (b) Two years

Explanation:
FSI publishes the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) every two years (biennial report) to monitor forest
and tree cover across the country.

Q41. The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) was established primarily
for:
(a) River interlinking research
(b) Wildlife habitat studies
(c) Environmental science and engineering research
(d) Renewable energy promotion

Answer: (c) Environmental science and engineering research

Explanation:
NEERI is a premier research institute under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR),
established for conducting research and development in environmental science and engineering,
particularly in pollution control and environmental impact assessment.

Q41. NEERI is headquartered at:

(a) Chennai
(b) Bhopal
(c) Nagpur
(d) Delhi

Answer: (c) Nagpur

Explanation:
The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) is headquartered in Nagpur,
Maharashtra.

Q42. The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) comes under which ministry?
(a) Ministry of Science and Technology
(b) Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
(c) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(d) Ministry of Earth Sciences

Answer: (c) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Explanation:
The BSI is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(MoEFCC) and is responsible for surveying plant biodiversity in India.

26
Q43. Which of the following activities are carried out by the Botanical Survey of India (BSI)?
(1) Preparation of Red Data Book for plants
(2) Preparation of Flora of India
(3) Conducting faunal diversity surveys
(4) Germplasm conservation of rare plants
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), and (3)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)

Explanation:
 BSI prepares the Red Data Book for plants and publishes the Flora of India.
 It also engages in germplasm conservation of rare and endangered plants.
 Faunal surveys are the responsibility of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), not BSI

27
 LEARNING CONTENT

1. Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

Overview:
 Established: 1982
 Headquarters: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
 Under: Autonomous body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(MoEFCC).
 Mandate:
 Training of Forest and Wildlife officers.
 Research on wildlife ecology and management.
 Capacity building for protected area managers.
 Policy support for wildlife conservation.
 Collaboration with international conservation organizations like IUCN.

Major Functions:
 Conducting wildlife census and habitat evaluations.
 Publication of Status of Tigers in India reports (All India Tiger Estimation).
 Satellite telemetry and radio collaring studies.
 Biodiversity monitoring and climate change impacts on wildlife.

Important Contributions:

 Training Indian Forest Service (IFS) probationers in wildlife management.

 Tiger habitat mapping.
 Coral reef and marine biodiversity studies.
 Wildlife forensics and genetic studies (wildlife DNA analysis lab).

2. Forest Survey of India (FSI)

Overview:
 Established: 1981
 Headquarters: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
 Under: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
 Mandate:
 Assessment of forest and tree resources.
 Monitoring forest cover changes.
 Preparation of thematic maps (e.g., forest type maps, density maps).
 Forest inventory for planning and policy making.

28
 Key Functions:

 Publishes the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) every two years.
 Surveys of forest and tree cover using remote sensing and GIS technology.
 Estimation of growing stock and carbon stock in forests.
 Assessing forest fire susceptibility zones.
 Reports and Publications:
 India State of Forest Report (ISFR): Gives data on forest cover, tree cover, mangroves,
bamboo resources.
 Forest Fire Reports: Provides annual data on forest fires in India.

Key Definitions (from ISFR):

 Forest Cover: All lands more than 1 hectare in area with a tree canopy density of more than
10%.
 Tree Cover: Tree patches outside the recorded forest areas.
 Very Dense Forest: >70% canopy density.
 Moderately Dense Forest: 40–70% canopy density.
 Open Forest: 10–40% canopy density.

3. National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI)

Overview:
 Established: 1958 (as Central Public Health Engineering Research Institute)
 Renamed: 1974 as NEERI
 Headquarters: Nagpur, Maharashtra
 Under: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
 Mandate:
 R&D in environmental science and engineering.
 Consultancy services in pollution control and environmental management.
 Environmental impact assessment (EIA) studies.
 Development of cleaner technologies and sustainable environmental practices.

Key Functions:
 Water and wastewater treatment technology research.
 Air quality monitoring and forecasting.
 Solid and hazardous waste management.
 Environmental biotechnology and microbial remediation.
 Pollution abatement strategies for industries and urban areas.

Important Contributions:
 Ganga Action Plan technical advisory.
 Development of eco-restoration technologies for water bodies.
 NEERI Zoning Atlas for site selection of industries based on environmental criteria.
 Air quality models and emission inventory databases for Indian cities.

29
4. Botanical Survey of India (BSI)

Overview:
 Established: 1890 (Reorganized in 1954)
 Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal
 Under: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
 Mandate:
 Exploration, collection, documentation, and research on the plant biodiversity of India.
 Preparation of the Flora of India and regional Floras.
 Conservation of rare, endangered, and threatened (RET) plant species.
 Maintenance of herbaria, botanical gardens, and research stations across India.

Key Functions:
 Survey and documentation of plant resources.
 Preparation and updating of the Red Data Book of Indian Plants (Endangered and threatened
species).
 Germplasm conservation through seed banks and botanical gardens.
 Ex-situ conservation of plants.
 Identification and classification of new plant species.

Important Contributions:
 Flora of India: Comprehensive documentation of India’s plant wealth.
 National Herbarium (Central National Herbarium): Maintains specimens for research and
reference.
 Red Data Book: Provides threat status and conservation information for Indian flora.

 WII — Wildlife training and research; conducts All India Tiger Estimation.
 FSI — National Forest cover assessment; publishes biennial ISFR.
 NEERI — Environmental research body for pollution control and EIA.
 BSI — Primary agency for plant biodiversity documentation and conservation.

30
Q44. Where is the headquarters of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) located?
(a) Geneva, Switzerland
(b) New York, USA
(c) Nairobi, Kenya
(d) Paris, France

Answer: (c) Nairobi, Kenya

Explanation:
UNEP is the only major UN agency headquartered in a developing country — Nairobi, Kenya.
Established in 1972 following the Stockholm Conference, it coordinates the UN’s environmental
activities.

Q45. Which of the following flagship reports is NOT published by UNEP?

(a) Global Environment Outlook (GEO)
(b) Emissions Gap Report
(c) Adaptation Gap Report
(d) World Development Report

Answer: (d) World Development Report

Explanation:
 GEO, Emissions Gap, and Adaptation Gap Reports are major UNEP publications.
 World Development Report is published by the World Bank, not UNEP.

Q46. The famous “Earth Hour” campaign was initiated by which organization?
(a) Greenpeace
(b) Conservation International
(c) UNEP
(d) WWF

Answer: (d) WWF

Explanation:
WWF started Earth Hour in 2007 in Sydney, Australia — encouraging people to turn off non-essential
lights for one hour to raise awareness about climate change.

Q47. The logo of WWF features which endangered species?

(a) African Elephant
(b) Polar Bear
(c) Giant Panda
(d) Snow Leopard

Answer: (c) Giant Panda

Explanation:
The Giant Panda has been the logo of WWF since its founding in 1961. The species was chosen for its
appealing appearance and endangered status.

31
Q48. Which of the following describes Greenpeace accurately?
(1) It is an intergovernmental organization.
(2) It was founded to campaign against nuclear testing.
(3) It focuses on climate change, deforestation, overfishing.
(4) Its headquarters are located in Amsterdam.
(a) (2) and (3) only
(b) (1) and (2) only
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (c) (2), (3), and (4)

Explanation:
 Greenpeace was founded in 1971 to oppose US nuclear testing in Alaska.
 It is an NGO, not an intergovernmental organization.
 Headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
 Works on climate, forests, oceans, and against environmental degradation.

Q49. Greenpeace’s most famous ship used for environmental activism is:
(a) Rainbow Warrior
(b) Sea Shepherd
(c) Blue Planet
(d) Ocean Defender

Answer: (a) Rainbow Warrior

Explanation:
Rainbow Warrior is the iconic ship used by Greenpeace for campaigns worldwide, notably in anti-
whaling, anti-nuclear, and anti-pollution drives.

Q50. Conservation International (CI) focuses majorly on which of the following concepts?
(a) Deep ecology
(b) Ecoregions
(c) Biodiversity Hotspots
(d) Sustainable cities

Answer: (c) Biodiversity Hotspots

Explanation:
CI works extensively on biodiversity hotspots — regions with high levels of species endemism and
significant habitat loss — a concept co-pioneered by Norman Myers and promoted by CI to prioritize
conservation.

Q51. Which strategy is emphasized by Conservation International (CI) for achieving conservation
goals?
(a) Strict nature reserves with no human intervention
(b) Promoting corporate partnerships for sustainable practices
(c) Enforcing marine protected areas exclusively
(d) Banning all tourism in sensitive ecosystems

Answer: (b) Promoting corporate partnerships for sustainable practices

CI collaborates with corporations and governments to integrate sustainability into business and
policymaking, recognizing the need for economic drivers to align with conservation.

32
Q52. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was established by:
(a) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
(b) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and World Health Organization (WHO)
(c) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
(d) United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)

Answer: (a) UNEP and WMO

IPCC was founded in 1988 by the UNEP and WMO to assess the scientific information related to climate
change, its impacts, and potential future risks.

Q53. Which report of the IPCC introduced the concept of carbon budget to limit global warming to
1.5°C?
(a) AR4 (2007)
(b) AR5 (2014)
(c) Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C (SR1.5, 2018)
(d) AR6 (2021-2023)

Answer: (c) Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C (SR1.5, 2018)

The SR1.5 report detailed that to limit warming to 1.5°C, the world has a finite carbon budget — a fixed
amount of CO₂ that can still be emitted without breaching the target.

Q54. Which of the following are flagship reports published by the UN Environment Programme
(UNEP)?
(1) Global Environment Outlook (GEO)
(2) Emissions Gap Report
(3) Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI)
(4) Adaptation Gap Report
(a) (1), (2), (4)
(b) (2), (3), (4)
(c) (1), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (4)

 GEO, Emissions Gap Report, and Adaptation Gap Report are UNEP publications.
 CCPI is published by Germanwatch and Climate Action Network, not UNEP.

Q55. Which of the following programs/campaigns are associated with WWF?

(1) Earth Hour
(2) Living Planet Report
(3) REDD+
(4) Living Planet Index
(a) (1), (2)
(b) (1), (2), (4)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (3), (4)

Answer: (b) (1), (2), (4)

 Earth Hour and Living Planet Report are WWF's signature initiatives.
 Living Planet Index is published by WWF and Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
 REDD+ is a UNFCCC framework for forest conservation — not WWF-specific.

33
Q56. Which of the following are core areas of work for Greenpeace?
(1) Protection of forests
(2) Campaigns against nuclear weapons testing
(3) Overfishing and marine conservation
(4) Promotion of genetically modified crops
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (2), (3), (4)
(c) (1), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

 Greenpeace works on forests, climate change, and oceans — including fighting against
overfishing.
 It opposes genetically modified crops, advocating precautionary principles in agriculture.

Q57. Greenpeace operates in which of the following areas?

(1) Whaling
(2) Climate Change
(3) Forest Protection
(4) Sustainable Banking
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (2), (3), (4)
(c) (1), (2), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

 Whaling, climate change, and forest protection are active areas for Greenpeace.
 Sustainable banking is not a core Greenpeace agenda — it’s more aligned with organizations
like UNEP-FI.

Q58. Conservation International focuses on which of the following strategies?

(1) Conservation of biodiversity hotspots
(2) Partnership with corporations for sustainability
(3) Advocating for complete ban on eco-tourism
(4) Climate change adaptation and mitigation
(a) (1), (2), (4)
(b) (1), (3), (4)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (4)

 CI emphasizes biodiversity hotspots, corporate engagement, and climate adaptation.

 CI does not oppose eco-tourism entirely — it promotes responsible and sustainable tourism.

34
Q59. Which of the following are core projects/initiatives of Conservation International?
(1) Nature-based Solutions for climate resilience
(2) Tropical Ecology Assessment and Monitoring (TEAM) Network
(3) Coral Triangle Initiative
(4) Global Tiger Forum
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (2), (3), (4)
(c) (1), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

 Nature-based Solutions, TEAM Network, and Coral Triangle Initiative are key CI programs.
 Global Tiger Forum is a separate international entity focusing on tiger conservation — not run
by CI.

Q60. Which of the following principles govern the working of the IPCC?
(1) Scientific rigor and peer-review
(2) Policy-relevant but not policy-prescriptive
(3) Global scientific consensus
(4) Direct formulation of national climate policies
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (1), (2), (4)
(c) (2), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

 IPCC is based on scientific peer review and aims to be policy-relevant but not prescriptive.
 It informs policy but does not formulate national climate policies directly.

Q61. Which of the following are Special Reports published by IPCC?

(1) Global Warming of 1.5°C (SR1.5)
(2) Climate Change and Land (SRCCL)
(3) Oceans and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate (SROCC)
(4) World Energy Outlook
(a) (1), (2), (3)
(b) (2), (3), (4)
(c) (1), (3), (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), (3)

 SR1.5, SRCCL, and SROCC are IPCC Special Reports.

 World Energy Outlook is published by International Energy Agency (IEA).

35
 SUMMARY

 UNEP — UN’s environmental body; Emissions Gap Report.

 WWF — Wildlife conservation; Earth Hour; Panda logo.
 Greenpeace — Activist NGO; Rainbow Warrior; Anti-nuclear origins.
 CI — Biodiversity Hotspots; Sustainable corporate partnerships.
 IPCC — Climate change science body; Special Reports, ARs.

 UNEP — Publishes GEO, Emissions Gap reports.

 WWF — Earth Hour, Living Planet Report.
 Greenpeace — Active on climate, oceans, forests.
 CI — Focus on hotspots, partnerships, resilience.
 IPCC — SR1.5, SRCCL, SROCC; scientific consensus.

36
 LEARNING CONTENT

1. UN Environment Programme (UNEP)

Overview:
 Established: 1972 (after the Stockholm Conference).
 Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya.
 Parent Organization: United Nations.
 Mandate:
 Coordinate UN environmental activities.
 Assist developing countries in implementing environmentally sound policies.
 Promote sustainable development through science and policy advocacy.

Major Functions:
 Environmental assessment and reporting.
 Setting global environmental agendas.
 Developing international environmental treaties (e.g., Montreal Protocol, Convention on
Biological Diversity).

Key Publications:
 Global Environment Outlook (GEO)
 Emissions Gap Report
 Adaptation Gap Report
 Frontiers Report
Important Initiatives:
 UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030).
 Clean Seas Campaign (combat marine litter).
 Faith for Earth (religious engagement in environmentalism).

2. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)

Overview:
 Founded: 1961 (originally as World Wildlife Fund).
 Headquarters: Gland, Switzerland.
 Logo: Giant Panda.
 Mission: Conservation of nature and reduction of human impact on the environment.
Focus Areas:
 Wildlife conservation.
 Climate change mitigation.
 Sustainable development.
 Freshwater and marine conservation.
 Forest preservation.

37
 Major Programs and Reports:
 Earth Hour: Global event promoting awareness about climate change.
 Living Planet Report: A biennial report on the state of the planet’s biodiversity.
 Living Planet Index: Tracks changes in global biodiversity.
Collaborations:
 Partnerships with businesses to promote sustainable supply chains.
 Works with governments on conservation policies.

3. Greenpeace
Overview:
 Founded: 1971.
 Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
 Nature: Independent global campaigning NGO.
 Mission: Ensure the ability of the Earth to nurture life in all its diversity.
Core Areas of Work:
 Climate Change and Energy.
 Forest Protection.
 Oceans and Overfishing.
 Campaigns against Nuclear Weapons and Toxic Waste.
 Promotion of Renewable Energy.
Iconic Actions:
 Anti-whaling campaigns.
 Protesting oil drilling in the Arctic.
 Rainbow Warrior ship — symbol of environmental activism.
Important Fact:
Greenpeace does not accept funding from governments, political parties, or corporations to
maintain independence.

4. Conservation International (CI)

Overview:
 Founded: 1987.
 Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, USA.
 Mission: Empower societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature, biodiversity, and
human well-being.
Focus Areas:
 Biodiversity Hotspots: Identifying and conserving areas with high species endemism under
severe threat.
 Climate Change: Promoting nature-based solutions like forest conservation.
 Ocean Conservation: Protecting marine biodiversity.
 Sustainable Development: Promoting sustainability in agriculture, energy, and livelihoods.
Key Strategies:
 Scientific research and monitoring.
 Community engagement.
 Corporate and government partnerships for conservation financing.
Important Programs:
 TEAM Network (Tropical Ecology Assessment and Monitoring): Monitors tropical ecosystems.
 Coral Triangle Initiative: Conserving coral reefs in Southeast Asia.

38
5. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

Overview:
 Established: 1988.
 Parent Organizations: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and World
Meteorological Organization (WMO).
 Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
 Mandate:
 Provide comprehensive scientific assessments on climate change, its impacts, and potential
adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Key Principles:
 Scientific Rigor: Peer-reviewed scientific information.
 Policy-Relevant, Not Policy-Prescriptive: Inform policymakers without dictating policy.
 Consensus-Based Reports: Ensuring broad scientific agreement.
Major Assessment Reports (ARs):
 AR1 (1990): Foundation for UNFCCC.
 AR2 (1995): Detection of human influence on climate.
 AR3 (2001): Climate change impacts detailed.
 AR4 (2007): Scientific consensus on human-caused warming — won Nobel Peace Prize (with
Al Gore).
 AR5 (2014): Basis for Paris Agreement.
 AR6 (2021–2023): Urgent call for deep emissions cuts; climate tipping points highlighted.

Special Reports:
 SR1.5 (2018): Global Warming of 1.5°C — introduced carbon budget concept.
 SRCCL (2019): Climate Change and Land.
 SROCC (2019): Oceans and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate.

Working Groups:
 WG I: Physical Science Basis.
 WG II: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability.
 WG III: Mitigation of Climate Change.

39
Q62. In the 2024 Environmental Performance Index (EPI), which country ranked first?
(a) Sweden
(b) Finland
(c) Denmark
(d) Switzerland
Answer: (c) Denmark
 The EPI 2024 ranks countries based on their environmental health, ecosystem vitality, and
climate policy.
 Denmark topped the rankings due to strong climate policies, renewable energy adoption, and
pollution control.

Q63. The State of Environment Report (SoER) 2023 in India was released by:
(a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
(b) National Green Tribunal (NGT)
(c) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
(d) The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
Answer: (a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
MoEFCC releases the State of Environment Report (SoER) highlighting the status of air, water, forests,
and climate sectors in India annually.

Q64. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aims to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by
what percent by 2026 compared to 2017 levels?
(a) 20%
(b) 30%
(c) 40%
(d) 50%
Answer: (b) 30%
NCAP launched in 2019 aims to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 levels by 30% in non-attainment cities by
2026 with respect to 2017 levels.

Q65. Jal Jeevan Mission aims to achieve which of the following by 2024?
(1) Tap water supply to every rural household
(2) Urban water supply management
(3) Water conservation through rainwater harvesting
(4) Greywater management in villages
(a) (1) and (4)
(b) (1) and (3)
(c) (2) and (4)
(d) (1), (3), and (4)

40
Answer: (a) (1) and (4)
 Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) targets 100% Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) in rural
areas by 2024.
 It includes provisions for greywater management but not primarily for urban water supply,
which is under AMRUT 2.0.

Q66. Green India Mission is one of the missions under:

(a) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
(b) National Electric Mobility Mission
(c) Swachh Bharat Mission
(d) National Water Mission

Answer: (a) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

 Green India Mission aims to increase forest and tree cover to enhance ecosystem services and
carbon sequestration.
 It is one of the eight missions under NAPCC.

Q67. Microplastics are best described as:

(a) Plastics less than 10 mm in diameter
(b) Plastics less than 5 mm in diameter
(c) Plastics that are visible to the naked eye
(d) Nanoplastics with size less than 1 nm

Answer: (b) Plastics less than 5 mm in diameter

 Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm.

 They result from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or are manufactured for use in personal
care products.

Q68. Which of the following are concerns related to synthetic biology?

(1) Biosafety hazards
(2) Uncontrolled release of synthetic organisms
(3) Potential for bioweapons development
(4) Loss of natural biodiversity
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1) and (3) only

Answer: (c) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

 Synthetic biology combines biology and engineering to design new biological parts.
 It raises concerns about biosafety, bioterrorism, biodiversity loss, and ethical implications.

41
Q69. Geoengineering techniques include which of the following?
(1) Carbon dioxide removal
(2) Solar radiation management
(3) Genetic modification of coral reefs
(4) Direct injection of aerosols into the stratosphere
(a) (1) and (2)
(b) (1), (2), and (4)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (b) (1), (2), and (4)

 Geoengineering refers to large-scale intervention techniques in Earth's climate.

 Carbon dioxide removal and Solar radiation management (SRM) such as aerosol injection are
recognized methods.
 Genetic modification of coral reefs is considered a biodiversity adaptation strategy, not
geoengineering.

Q70. Which Indian city was declared the world’s first certified water plus city under the Swachh
Survekshan 2022?

(a) Surat
(b) Indore
(c) Bengaluru
(d) Chennai

Answer: (b) Indore

Indore was certified as India’s and the world’s first Water Plus city — ensuring no untreated waste
water flows into water bodies.

Q71. Which of the following is a notable environmental failure in India related to water resource
management?
(a) Revival of Sabarmati Riverfront
(b) Yamuna Action Plan
(c) Silent Valley conservation movement
(d) Chilika Lake restoration

Answer: (b) Yamuna Action Plan

Despite significant investment, the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) has failed to improve the water quality
of the Yamuna River due to poor implementation, untreated sewage, and encroachments.

Q72. Which of the following are indicators used in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2024?
(1) Climate Change Performance
(2) Air Quality
(3) Biodiversity and Habitat
(4) Gender Equality Index
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (1), (2), (4)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (3), and (4)

42
Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)
 EPI evaluates countries on:
 Climate change mitigation efforts.
 Air quality standards.
 Biodiversity conservation.
 Gender Equality is not a parameter of EPI; it is assessed under indices like Global Gender Gap
Index.

Q73. Which organizations jointly publish the State of India’s Environment (SoE) Report annually?
(1) Centre for Science and Environment (CSE)
(2) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
(3) Down to Earth magazine
(4) NITI Aayog

(a) (1) and (3)

(b) (1), (3), and (4)
(c) (1) and (2)
(d) (2) and (4)

Answer: (a) (1) and (3)

 Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and its magazine Down to Earth publish the annual
State of India’s Environment report.
 MoEFCC publishes the State of Environment Report, but not this independent annual SoE.

Q74. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) targets which of the following measures?
(1) Installation of Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS)
(2) City-specific clean air action plans
(3) Increase in forest and tree cover
(4) Strengthening public transport networks
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2), and (3)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)

NCAP focuses on:

 More air monitoring stations.
 Customized clean air plans for non-attainment cities.
 Public transport improvement to reduce emissions.
 Forest cover increase is the focus of Green India Mission, not NCAP.

43
Q75. Objectives of the Green India Mission include:
(1) Enhancement of ecosystem services
(2) Carbon sequestration to reduce emissions
(3) Providing biomass-based energy solutions
(4) Improvement of livelihoods for forest-dependent communities
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)

 Green India Mission goals:

 Ecosystem restoration.
 Increasing carbon sink via forests.
 Livelihood enhancement for local people.
 Biomass energy promotion is more closely related to National Bio-Energy Mission, not Green
India Mission.

Q76. Microplastics impact the environment by:

(1) Entering food chains via aquatic life
(2) Accumulating in soil ecosystems
(3) Enhancing soil fertility
(4) Acting as vectors for harmful pollutants
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)

Microplastics:
 Are ingested by fish, entering food chains.
 Are found in soils and sediments, harming soil biota.
 Adsorb toxic substances, acting as pollutant vectors.
 They degrade soil quality, they do not enhance fertility.

Q77. Which are considered geoengineering techniques?

(1) Ocean Iron Fertilization
(2) Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)
(3) Stratospheric Aerosol Injection
(4) Afforestation and Reforestation
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (1), (3), and (4)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

44
Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)

Geoengineering includes:
 Ocean Iron Fertilization: Stimulating phytoplankton to capture CO₂.
 CCS: Capturing and storing CO₂ underground.
 Aerosol Injection: Reflecting sunlight to cool Earth.
 Afforestation is a natural carbon sink, a climate mitigation strategy, but not classified as
geoengineering.

Q78. Which of the following are considered environmental success stories in India?
(1) Silent Valley Movement, Kerala
(2) Revival of Chilika Lake, Odisha
(3) Yamuna Action Plan, Delhi
(4) Namami Gange Programme’s sewage treatment plants (STPs) in Uttarakhand
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (1), (2), and (3)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)

 Silent Valley was saved from dam construction.

 Chilika Lake was revived and removed from Montreux Record.
 Namami Gange STPs in Uttarakhand have been effective.
 Yamuna Action Plan is generally seen as a failure.

Q79. Failures associated with India's environmental management include:

(1) Yamuna Action Plan
(2) Ganga Action Plan (Phase I)
(3) Bhopal Gas Tragedy management
(4) Wildlife Protection Act 1972 enforcement failures in Northeast India
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (3), and (4)

Answer: (c) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

 Yamuna Action Plan: Minimal improvement in water quality.

 Ganga Action Plan Phase I: Incomplete infrastructure and sewage treatment.
 Bhopal Disaster: Poor immediate management and long-term rehabilitation failures.
 Wildlife Act Enforcement: Challenges remain in NE India due to hunting and habitat loss.

45
SUMMARY

46
 LEARNING CONTENT

1. Recent Environmental News, Reports, and Indices

Environmental Performance Index (EPI)

 Published by: Yale Center for Environmental Law & Policy and Columbia University.
 Latest Edition: 2024.
 Top Rank (2024): Denmark.
 India’s Rank (2024): Near bottom (around 176th).

Parameters:
 Climate Change Mitigation.
 Air Quality.
 Biodiversity and Habitat Conservation.
 Waste Management.

State of Environment Report (India)

 Published by: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
 Focus Areas: Air and water quality, forest cover, waste management, biodiversity.
 Independent Report: State of India’s Environment Report by Centre for Science and
Environment (CSE) and Down-to-Earth magazine — focuses on people-centric environmental
issues.

Other Important Reports:

 IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report (2023): Calls for urgent climate action; warns of irreversible tipping
points.
 UNEP Emissions Gap Report: Highlights the gap between current emissions and those needed
to meet Paris targets.
 Global Biodiversity Outlook (GBO-5): Monitors biodiversity loss globally.

2. Government Initiatives and Schemes Related to Environment

National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)

 Launched: 2019.
 Objective:
 20–30% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels by 2026 (2017 baseline).
 Focus on non-attainment cities.

47
Strategies:
 Installation of Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS).
 Clean Air Action Plans at city level.
 Public transport and infrastructure upgrades.
 Restrictions on biomass burning and industrial emissions.

Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)

 Launched: 2019.
 Target:
 100% tap water connection to rural households by 2024.
 Greywater management.
 Executing Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti.
 Key Focus: Drinking water accessibility and sustainability.

Green India Mission

 Launched under: National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
 Goals:
 Increase forest/tree cover by 5 million hectares.
 Improve ecosystem services (e.g., biodiversity, water, carbon sequestration).
 Enhance livelihoods of forest-dependent communities.

Other Important Schemes:

 Namami Gange: Cleaning of River Ganga through pollution control, STPs, riverfront
development.
 National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC): For adaptation projects in vulnerable
sectors.
 Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME India): Reduce
dependency on fossil fuels.

3. Emerging Environmental Challenges

Microplastics
 Definition: Plastic fragments <5 mm in diameter.
 Sources: Breakdown of larger plastics, personal care products, synthetic textiles.
 Impacts:
 Enter food chains via aquatic organisms.
 Transport of toxic chemicals.
 Found in soils, rivers, even human blood (recent studies).

Synthetic Biology
 Definition: Design and construction of new biological parts, systems, or organisms.
 Applications:
 Biofuels.
 Disease treatments (genetically modified bacteria).
 Environmental bioremediation.

48
Concerns:
 Biosafety risks (synthetic organisms escaping labs).
 Potential use in bioweapons.
 Threats to biodiversity through genetic pollution.

Geoengineering
 Definition: Large-scale intervention in Earth’s climate system.
 Types:
 Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR): Direct Air Capture (DAC), ocean iron fertilization.
 Solar Radiation Management (SRM): Aerosol injection into stratosphere, marine cloud
brightening.
 Risks:
 Ethical concerns (Who controls the thermostat?).
 Unintended climatic side effects.

SUMARRY

 Microplastics and Synthetic Biology are rising concerns for global ecosystems and biosecurity.
 Geoengineering is NOT officially deployed yet; research phase only.
 Chilika Lake is India's first Ramsar site (1981) — great revival story.
 EPI indicators focus mainly on climate, air, biodiversity, not gender equality or human rights.

49
Q80. The Chipko Movement initially started to protest against:
(a) Mining in the Aravallis
(b) Felling of trees in the Himalayan region
(c) Hydroelectric dam construction
(d) River pollution in the Ganges

Answer: (b) Felling of trees in the Himalayan region

 Chipko Movement began in 1973 in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand (then Uttar Pradesh).
 It was a non-violent protest against deforestation and aimed at protecting Himalayan forests
from commercial logging.
 Villagers, especially women, embraced trees to prevent them from being cut — "Chipko"
means "to hug" in Hindi.

Q81. Who among the following was a prominent leader of the Chipko Movement?
(a) Medha Patkar
(b) Chandi Prasad Bhatt
(c) Rajendra Singh
(d) Sundarlal Bahuguna

Answer: (d) Sundarlal Bahuguna

 Sundarlal Bahuguna was one of the most recognized leaders.
 He promoted "Ecology is permanent economy" and spread the movement nationally.
 Chandi Prasad Bhatt was also a key grassroots leader but Bahuguna became the movement's
face globally.

Q82. The primary objective of the Narmada Bachao Andolan was:

(a) To prevent pollution of the Narmada river
(b) To oppose the construction of large dams on the Narmada river
(c) To conserve fish biodiversity in the Narmada basin
(d) To promote hydroelectric power generation

Answer: (b) To oppose the construction of large dams on the Narmada river
 NBA, led by Medha Patkar, Baba Amte, opposed projects like the Sardar Sarovar Dam.
 The movement emphasized displacement of local communities, submergence of forests and
agricultural lands, and ecological damage.

50
Q83. Which legislation is most closely linked to the concerns raised by the Narmada Bachao
Andolan?
(a) Forest Rights Act, 2006
(b) Land Acquisition Act, 1894
(c) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
(d) Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

Answer: (b) Land Acquisition Act, 1894

 NBA focused on fair and just compensation, proper resettlement and rehabilitation, all of
which fall under the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (before its replacement by the 2013 Act).
 The struggle highlighted the inadequacy of the old law for displaced persons (Project-Affected
People).

Q84. The Save Silent Valley Movement was aimed at:

(a) Preventing mining in Western Ghats
(b) Stopping a hydroelectric project in a tropical rainforest
(c) Protecting river Ganga from pollution
(d) Stopping the hunting of endangered tigers

Answer: (b) Stopping a hydroelectric project in a tropical rainforest

 The Silent Valley in Kerala is a tropical evergreen rainforest — part of the Western Ghats
biodiversity hotspot.
 In the 1970s, plans to build a hydroelectric dam on the Kunthi River threatened the forest.
 Environmentalists, including M. K. Prasad and poet Sugathakumari, led the protests.
 Result: In 1985, Silent Valley was declared a National Park.

Q85. Silent Valley is famous for the conservation of which endangered species?
(a) Lion-tailed Macaque
(b) Indian Rhinoceros
(c) Snow Leopard
(d) Great Indian Bustard

Answer: (a) Lion-tailed Macaque

 The Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) is endemic to the Western Ghats.
 One of the major motivations behind the Save Silent Valley Movement was to protect its
habitat.
 Campaigns: Namami Gange and Jal Shakti Abhiyan

Q86. The Namami Gange programme primarily focuses on:

(1) Sewerage treatment infrastructure
(2) River surface cleaning
(3) Afforestation along river banks
(4) Construction of new dams across Ganga
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (1) and (4)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

51
Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)
 Namami Gange, launched in 2015, focuses on:
 Sewage treatment plants (STPs).
 Riverfront development and river surface cleaning.
 Biodiversity conservation and afforestation along banks.
 No plans for new dams under this program — focus is on pollution reduction and ecosystem
restoration.

Q87. Jal Shakti Abhiyan aims at which of the following:

(1) Rainwater harvesting
(2) Rejuvenation of water bodies
(3) Afforestation
(4) Urban sewerage infrastructure construction
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (1), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)

Jal Shakti Abhiyan is a water conservation campaign launched in 2019.
Focus areas:
 Rainwater harvesting.
 Revival of traditional water bodies.
 Afforestation to improve water recharge.
 Urban sewerage projects are covered under other schemes (e.g., AMRUT).

SUMMARY

52
Q88. Which of the following are associated with the Chipko Movement?
(1) Emphasis on women's participation
(2) Conservation of forests in the Himalayan region
(3) Originated in Gujarat
(4) Led to a ban on commercial felling in certain regions
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (1), (3), and (4)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)
Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)
 Women played a central role — grassroots activism.
 The movement began in Uttarakhand (not Gujarat).
 Resulted in a 15-year ban on green felling in Himalayan forests by the Indian government.

Q89. Objectives of the Narmada Bachao Andolan included:

(1) Prevention of large dam construction on the Narmada River
(2) Advocacy for proper rehabilitation of displaced people
(3) Conservation of the endangered Gharial species
(4) Demand for environmental impact assessments (EIA)
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)
Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)
 NBA opposed large dam construction.
 Strong focus on resettlement and rehabilitation (R&R).
 Demanded proper EIAs before project clearances.
 Gharial conservation is a wildlife project not central to NBA's agenda.

Q90. The Save Silent Valley Movement led to:

(1) Cancellation of the hydroelectric dam project
(2) Declaration of Silent Valley as a National Park
(3) Revival of the River Kunthi
(4) Passage of Forest Conservation Act, 1980
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

53
Answer: (c) (1), (2), and (4)
 Dam project was cancelled in 1983 after intense protests.
 Silent Valley was declared a National Park in 1985.
 Forest Conservation Act, 1980 provided stronger forest protection, though its passage was
national and not a direct outcome of Silent Valley, it strengthened legal protection for forests
indirectly.

Q91. Under the Namami Gange Programme, major activities include:

(1) Construction of sewerage treatment plants
(2) Development of riverfronts
(3) Creation of wildlife sanctuaries along the river Ganga
(4) Promotion of organic farming along the river basin
(a) (1), (2), and (4)
(b) (1), (2), and (3)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (4)

Focus is on:
 Sewage infrastructure (STPs).
 Riverfront development.
 Organic farming promotion in the basin to reduce runoff pollution.
 Creation of wildlife sanctuaries is not directly part of Namami Gange (though biodiversity
conservation is promoted).

Q92. Jal Shakti Abhiyan focuses on:

(1) Rainwater harvesting
(2) Rejuvenation of water bodies
(3) Revival of springs and wells
(4) Construction of large dams
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)

Jal Shakti Abhiyan (2019) is a water conservation campaign focused on:
 Rainwater harvesting.
 Water bodies rejuvenation.
 Spring revival, especially in hilly areas.
 Large dam construction is not part of the campaign — that's a separate infrastructure subject.

54
 LEARNING CONTENT

1. Chipko Movement
Overview:

 Started: 1973
 Region: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand (then Uttar Pradesh)
 Nature: Non-violent ecological movement.
 Aim: To protect Himalayan forests from commercial logging and deforestation.
 Method: People hugged trees to prevent them from being cut down (Chipko = "to hug" in
Hindi).

Key Leaders:
 Sundarlal Bahuguna — Spread national awareness.
 Chandi Prasad Bhatt — Grassroots mobilizer and founder of Dasholi Gram Swarajya Mandal
(DGSM).

Key Features:
 Women’s participation was a unique aspect — rural women depended heavily on forest
resources for livelihood.
 Led to the government announcing a 15-year ban on green felling in Himalayan forests.
 Early precursor of environmental justice and eco-feminism in India.

2. Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA)

Overview:
 Started: 1985
 River Basin: Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat.
 Nature: Socio-environmental movement.
 Aim: Protest against construction of large dams, especially the Sardar Sarovar Dam.
 Focus on displacement of local communities (adivasis, farmers) and loss of ecological zones.
Key Leaders:
 Medha Patkar — Founder leader.
 Baba Amte — Eminent social worker and supporter.
Achievements:
 Raised global awareness about the cost of mega-dam projects.
 Strengthened India’s environmental regulatory framework (EIA 1994 notifications).
Criticism:
 Project delays and economic costs.
 Debate on development vs displacement trade-offs.

55
3. Save Silent Valley Movement
Overview:
 Started: 1973–1985
 Region: Silent Valley, Kerala.
 Issue: Kerala State Electricity Board proposed a hydroelectric project on Kunthi River,
threatening tropical evergreen forest.
Key Leaders:
 M. K. Prasad — Environmental scientist.
 Sugathakumari — Poet and activist; emotional connect through literature.

Aim:
Prevent submergence of one of India’s last undisturbed tropical evergreen forests — critical for Lion-
tailed Macaque and other endemic species.
Outcome:
 The hydroelectric project was scrapped in 1983.
 Silent Valley declared a National Park in 1985.
Significance:
 Marked the beginning of scientific conservation movements in India.
 Highlighted ecosystem services of untouched forests.

4. Namami Gange Programme

Overview:
 Launched: 2015.
 Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti.
 Budget: ₹20,000 crore initially allocated.

Aim: Comprehensive river rejuvenation for Ganga River — ensuring nirmalta (cleanliness) and aviralta
(uninterrupted flow).

Key Components:
 Sewerage treatment infrastructure: Construction and upgradation of STPs (Sewage Treatment
Plants).
 River surface cleaning: Removing floating waste.
 Biodiversity conservation: Dolphin conservation initiatives.
 Afforestation: Along Ganga basin to prevent erosion.
 Promotion of Organic farming: To reduce agricultural runoff pollution.

5. Jal Shakti Abhiyan

Overview:
 Launched: 2019.
 Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti.
 Aim: Water conservation campaign focused on watershed rejuvenation and groundwater
recharge.

Key Features:
 Rainwater harvesting: Reviving traditional systems like check dams, tanks.
 Rejuvenation of water bodies: Restoration of ponds, lakes.
 Afforestation: Increase forest and green cover for water retention.
 Spring-shed management: Especially in Himalayan and North-Eastern regions.

56
Q93. The concept of Sustainable Development was popularized by:
(a) Kyoto Protocol, 1997
(b) Brundtland Commission Report, 1987
(c) Rio Declaration, 1992
(d) Paris Agreement, 2015

Answer: (b) Brundtland Commission Report, 1987

 Brundtland Commission (officially the World Commission on Environment and Development)

defined sustainable development as:
 “Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.”
 The report is titled “Our Common Future” (1987).

Q94. Which of the following are principles of sustainable development?

(1) Inter-generational equity
(2) Polluter Pays Principle
(3) Precautionary Principle
(4) Urbanization over agriculture
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)

 Inter-generational equity: Responsibility toward future generations.

 Polluter Pays Principle: Cost of pollution to be borne by polluters.
 Precautionary Principle: Anticipate harm and take preventive action.
 Urbanization over agriculture: Not a principle of sustainability — it often contradicts
sustainable rural development.

Q95. Which of the following is NOT one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
(a) Affordable and Clean Energy
(b) Zero Hunger
(c) Colonization of Outer Space
(d) Life Below Water

Answer: (c) Colonization of Outer Space

 SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
 SDG 2: Zero Hunger.
 SDG 14: Life Below Water.
 Colonization of outer space is not an SDG target.

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Q96. Which of the following SDGs focus directly on environmental sustainability?
(1) Climate Action
(2) Life Below Water
(3) Responsible Consumption and Production
(4) Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)

 SDG 13: Climate Action.

 SDG 14: Life Below Water.
 SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
 SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) is about economic growth and innovation, not
directly environmental sustainability.

Q97. India’s initiatives toward promoting sustainability include:

(1) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
(2) International Solar Alliance (ISA)
(3) Smart Cities Mission
(4) Ujjwala Yojana for clean cooking fuel
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

 NAPCC: India’s climate mitigation blueprint (8 missions).

 ISA: India-initiated, promotes solar energy globally.
 Smart Cities Mission: Sustainable urban development.
 Ujjwala Yojana: Reduce indoor air pollution through LPG access — sustainability in health and
energy.

Q98. India’s State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs) are based on which national framework?
(a) NITI Aayog Vision 2030
(b) National Biodiversity Action Plan
(c) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
(d) Swachh Bharat Mission Guidelines

Answer: (c) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

SAPCCs are sub-national strategies aligned with NAPCC, customized to state-specific vulnerabilities and
needs.

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Q99. Which of the following are considered eco-friendly technologies?
(1) Solar photovoltaic energy systems
(2) Biomass gasification
(3) Carbon capture and storage (CCS)
(4) Open-pit mining
(a) (1), (2), and (3)
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)

 Solar PV, Biomass gasification, and CCS are eco-friendly technologies.

 Open-pit mining is environmentally damaging.

Q100. In Green Buildings, which technologies are commonly employed to ensure sustainability?
(1) Rainwater harvesting systems
(2) Solar passive architecture
(3) Low-Energy LED lighting
(4) Fossil fuel-based heating systems

(a) (1), (2), and (3)

(b) (1), (2), and (4)
(c) (2), (3), and (4)
(d) (1), (2), (3), and (4)

Answer: (a) (1), (2), and (3)

Green buildings integrate:

 Rainwater harvesting: Water conservation.
 Solar passive design: Reduce heating/cooling load.
 Low-energy lighting: Energy efficiency.
 Fossil fuel heating is NOT eco-friendly.

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 LEARNING CONTENT

1. Definition and Principles of Sustainable Development

Sustainable Development is defined as:

 “Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.”

Popularized by:

 Brundtland Commission Report (World Commission on Environment and Development), titled

“Our Common Future” (1987).

Key Principles of Sustainable Development:

 Inter-generational Equity:
Responsibility toward preserving resources for future generations.
 Polluter Pays Principle (PPP):
Those who cause environmental damage must bear the cost of remediation.
 Precautionary Principle:
Anticipating potential environmental harm and taking preventive measures even without full
scientific certainty.
 Integration Principle:
Environmental, economic, and social dimensions must be integrated into policy-making.
 Public Participation:
Stakeholders, including local communities, must be involved in decision-making.
 Sustainability Triangle:
1. Economic sustainability (growth without depletion of resources).
2. Social sustainability (equity and welfare).
3. Environmental sustainability (resource conservation).

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Overview:
 Adopted: 2015 (UN Sustainable Development Summit).
 Period: 2015–2030 (Agenda 2030).
 Replaced: Millennium Development Goals (MDGs, 2000–2015).
 Total Goals: 17 SDGs.
 Total Targets: 169 Targets.
 Total Indicators: 232 Indicators.

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 SDGs

Environment-Focused Goals:
 SDG 6 — Clean Water and Sanitation.
 SDG 12 — Responsible Consumption and Production.
 SDG 13 — Climate Action.
 SDG 14 — Life Below Water.
 SDG 15 — Life on Land.

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 Role of India in Promoting Sustainability

National Initiatives:

1. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):

8 National Missions including:

 National Solar Mission.
 National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency.
 National Water Mission.
 Green India Mission.

2. State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs):

 State-specific strategies aligned with NAPCC.

3. International Solar Alliance (ISA):

 Launched by India at COP21 (Paris, 2015).
 Focus on solar energy deployment in tropical countries (between Tropic of Cancer and
Capricorn).

4. Ujjwala Yojana:
 Providing LPG connections to below-poverty-line families to reduce indoor air pollution.

5. Smart Cities Mission:

 Promote sustainable urbanization — energy efficiency, e-mobility, public transport.

6. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME India):
 Incentivizing electric vehicles to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

7. Namami Gange Programme:

 Ganga river rejuvenation and pollution abatement.

8. National Electric Mobility Mission:

 Promote electric and hybrid vehicles.

9. Draft National Resource Efficiency Policy:

 To promote resource efficiency and circular economy.

10. Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index by NITI Aayog:

 Measures state performance on SDGs.

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 Examples of Eco-friendly Technologies:

 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems:

Harness solar energy; reduce carbon emissions.

 Wind Energy Technologies:

Wind turbines to generate clean electricity.

 Biomass Gasification:
Convert organic waste into energy with low emissions.

 Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS):

Capture CO₂ from industrial processes and store it underground to reduce atmospheric
emissions.

 Green Buildings:
Use of:
o Rainwater harvesting.
o Solar passive architecture.
o Energy-efficient lighting (LEDs).
o Wastewater recycling.

 Hydrogen Fuel Cells:

Clean energy technology using hydrogen to generate electricity without emissions.

 Geothermal Energy:
Utilizing Earth’s internal heat for power generation or heating.

 Circular Economy Innovations:

 Recycling and upcycling materials.
 Extended producer responsibility (EPR) models.

 Electric Vehicles (EVs):

Vehicles with no tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and carbon footprint.

 Micro-irrigation Techniques:
Drip and sprinkler irrigation saving water and energy.

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SUMMARY

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