Question

The Environment Protection Act was launched in India in which year?

• A. 1972
• B. 1980
• C. 1986
• D. 1990

Hint:

Remember the sequence of major Indian environmental laws:
1972 $\rightarrow$ Wildlife Protection Act
1974 $\rightarrow$ Water Act
1981 $\rightarrow$ Air Act
1986 $\rightarrow$ Environment Protection Act (EPA)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the year of enactment of the Environment Protection Act in India.
This is an important historical and legislative fact in environmental studies.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
We recall the timeline of major environmental legislations enacted by the Indian Parliament.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• The Environment Protection Act (EPA) of India was enacted in May 1986 and came into force on November 19, 1986.

• This Act was passed under Article 253 of the Constitution of India.

• The immediate catalyst for the creation of this comprehensive act was the catastrophic Bhopal Gas Tragedy, which occurred in December 1984.

• The primary objective of the Act is to provide an overarching framework for environmental protection, regulation, and the prevention of hazards to human beings, other living creatures, plants, and property.

• Let us examine the significance of the other years listed in the options:

• 1972: The Wildlife Protection Act was enacted.

• 1980: The Forest Conservation Act was passed.

• The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted in 1974, and the Air Act was enacted in 1981.


Step 4: Final Answer:
The Environment Protection Act was launched in the year 1986.