Why in news
The National Green Tribunal has sought a response from all states and Union Territories regarding the loss of trees, saying it is a "pan-India" issue.
The green body was hearing the issue of the alleged loss of 2.33 million hectares of tree cover in the country since 2000
National Green Tribunal (NGT)
NGT is a specialized body in India that handles cases related to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources.
Estd on 18 October 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
The NGT has five places of sitting: New Delhi (Principal Place of Sitting), Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai
Composition
Chairperson - retired Judge of the Supreme Court a High Court.
The Tribunal also has Judicial Members and Expert Members (each with at least 10, and not more than 20)
Objectives of NGT
To enforce any legal right relating to the environment and provide relief and compensation for damages to persons and property.
To safeguard the basic right to have a safe environment for individuals as part of Article 21 of the Constitution. (Subhash Kumar vs State of Bihar).
To strengthen environmental governance and accountability in the country through its specialized and dedicated judicial mechanism.
To bring together legal experts and environmental scientists to deliver timely and informed decisions on a wide range of environmental issues.
To promote sustainable development practices and balance environmental concerns with the need for economic growth and development.
To raise awareness and consciousness about environmental protection among the general public and policymakers.
Powers of the NGT
To hear and dispose of applications regarding substantial questions relating to environment To Award compensation and damages to the affected persons.
To direct restitution of property damaged due to environmental pollution or degradation.
To issue directions to any person, officer or authority to take steps to prevent, control or abate environmental pollution.
To lay down or modify environmental standards.
To undertake or order any study or inquiry into the environmental impact of any project or activity.
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