What did the National Green Tribunal ask the environment ministry?

The NGT asked the ministry to clarify if the apex and working groups on environmental health are still operational and to provide meeting minutes.

Why is the NGT investigating environmental health committees?

The NGT is examining the committees due to concerns and research linking air pollution to adverse health outcomes like anxiety and diabetes.

When were the environmental health committees first formed?

The apex committee and working group on environmental health were constituted on October 13, 2016.

Home / Environment / NGT Demands Clarity on Environmental Health Committees

NGT Demands Clarity on Environmental Health Committees

10 Jan

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Summary

NGT seeks status of environmental health committees from ministry.
Committees were formed in October 2016 and previously stated operational.
NGT is investigating links between air pollution and health issues.

NGT Demands Clarity on Environmental Health Committees

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has formally requested the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change to clarify the current operational status of its apex committee and working group on environmental health. These committees were initially constituted on October 13, 2016.

During a hearing on January 7, the NGT noted that the ministry had previously submitted an affidavit in 2023 stating both committees were operational. The tribunal is now seeking confirmation of their continued function or details of any reconstitution since their establishment, along with the minutes of their meetings.

The NGT's inquiry stems from its suo motu cognizance of media reports and research connecting air pollution to various adverse health effects, including anxiety and diabetes. The ministry has also informed the tribunal about the establishment of a nationwide environmental health cell.