The National Green Tribunal was established in the year __________. 

The correct answer is 2010.

Key Points

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established on October 18, 2010, under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
• Its primary purpose is to handle environmental disputes involving multi-disciplinary issues and ensure the protection of the environment.
• The NGT aims at the expeditious disposal of cases related to environmental protection, conservation of forests, and other natural resources.
• The tribunal operates based on principles such as sustainable development, the precautionary principle, and the polluter pays principle.
• It is a specialized judicial body with expertise in environmental laws, reducing the burden on regular courts.

Additional Information

• Principles Followed by NGT:
  • Sustainable Development: Ensures that development activities do not compromise the environment or future generations' needs.
  • Precautionary Principle: Preventive measures are taken when there is uncertainty about environmental harm.
  • Polluter Pays Principle: The polluter is financially liable for the environmental damage caused.
• Jurisdiction of NGT:
  • It has jurisdiction over all civil cases related to environmental issues under specified laws, such as the Water Act, Air Act, and Forest Conservation Act.
  • NGT judgments are binding, and appeals against its orders can be made only in the Supreme Court of India.
• Structure of NGT:
  • The tribunal comprises a Chairperson, judicial members, and expert members.
  • The Chairperson of the NGT is a retired judge of the Supreme Court or Chief Justice of a High Court.
• Significant Contributions:
  • NGT has delivered several landmark judgments, including those on pollution control, illegal mining, and waste management.
  • It has played a pivotal role in ensuring environmental justice and upholding environmental laws in India.
• Global Context:
  • NGT is one of the few dedicated environmental tribunals in the world, demonstrating India's commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
  • It serves as a model for other nations in establishing specialized bodies for environmental governance.