Powers and Functions — Current Affairs 2026

Current Affairs Connections

Recent developments and news linked to Powers and Functions.

NGT Directs States to Expedite River Rejuvenation Plans Amidst Water Scarcity Concerns

April 2025

In response to increasing water scarcity and pollution levels in major rivers across India, the National Green Tribunal recently issued stringent directives to several state governments. The NGT emphasized the urgent need to implement comprehensive river rejuvenation plans, including setting up functional sewage treatment plants, curbing industrial pollution, and preventing illegal encroachments on floodplains. This order reflects the NGT's ongoing commitment to ensuring clean water resources, a critical aspect of environmental protection and public health. The Tribunal's intervention aims to hold state authorities accountable for their statutory duties under the Water Act, 1974, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, pushing for time-bound execution of projects to restore ecological flow and water quality. This proactive stance by the NGT is vital for addressing the escalating environmental crisis.

UPSC Angle: This hook is relevant for GS-III (Environment & Ecology - water pollution, river conservation, NGT's role) and GS-II (Governance - inter-state water disputes, environmental policy implementation). Aspirants should analyze NGT's enforcement mechanisms and its coordination with state pollution control boards in such large-scale environmental projects. It also connects to the 'polluter pays' principle and sustainable development.

Background (2024)

Earlier events that provide context for this topic.

NGT Imposes Heavy Penalty on Construction Firm for CRZ Violations in Coastal Project

August 2024

The National Green Tribunal recently imposed a substantial penalty of ₹50 crore on a prominent construction firm for violating Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms during a major infrastructure project along the Konkan coast. The Tribunal found that the firm had undertaken construction activities without requisite environmental clearances and had caused irreversible damage to sensitive coastal ecosystems, including mangroves and sand dunes. This judgment underscores the NGT's stringent approach towards safeguarding fragile coastal environments and its readiness to impose significant financial deterrents against environmental non-compliance. The order also directed the firm to undertake extensive ecological restoration measures, demonstrating the NGT's focus on restitution of the environment alongside punitive actions. This case highlights the NGT's critical role in enforcing environmental laws in ecologically sensitive areas.

UPSC Angle: This event is highly relevant for GS-III (Environment & Ecology - coastal zone management, environmental clearances, NGT's enforcement powers) and GS-I (Geography - coastal ecosystems, environmental degradation). Aspirants should study the CRZ notification, the role of NGT in its enforcement, and the implications of such penalties for corporate environmental responsibility. It also touches upon the balance between development and conservation in coastal areas.