Q6.Enumerate the National Water Policy of India. Taking river Ganges as an example, discuss the strategies that may be adopted for river water pollution control and management. What are the legal provisions for managing and handling hazardous wastes in India?

India's growing population and industrialization pose significant challenges to water resources, necessitating robust policy frameworks and management strategies.

Key Features of the National Water Policy

• Water as a national resource, prioritising drinking water.
• Integrated and multi-sectoral development approach.
• Participatory management and equitable distribution.
• Maintenance of water quality standards.

Strategies for River Ganges Pollution Control and Management

• Control: Establishing Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), managing industrial and domestic solid waste, promoting public awareness, and ecological restoration.
• Management: Implementing basin-level planning, fostering inter-state cooperation, real-time monitoring of water quality, and strict enforcement of environmental regulations.

Legal Provisions for Hazardous Waste Management in India

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016, provide the legal framework. The Central and State Pollution Control Boards (CPCB/SPCB) are key enforcing agencies.

An integrated, multi-stakeholder approach, combining policy, technology, and community participation, is essential for sustainable water resource and waste management.