Air Act main objective – UGC NET Question

The Air Act, 1981 was enacted to provide a legal framework for preventing, controlling and abating air pollution in India. It empowers central and state Pollution Control Boards to set standards, monitor emissions and regulate polluting activities. The Act also includes provisions for declaring air pollution control areas and enforcing compliance. Therefore, the option that refers to preventing, controlling and abating air pollution through regulations and institutions accurately states its primary objective.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because the Act does not exclusively promote nuclear power plants. While energy choices affect air quality, the legislation focuses on regulating pollutants from various sources rather than prescribing one technology.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect as domestic appliance noise is not the central focus of the Air Act. Noise regulation falls partly under other rules and standards; the Act mainly addresses chemical pollutants in the air.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect since solid waste disposal is dealt with under separate municipal and environmental regulations. While open burning of waste can contribute to air pollution, the Air Act itself is not a solid waste management law.

Option D:
Option D is correct as it captures the broad mandate given to Pollution Control Boards under the Act. This includes industry regulation, monitoring, consent mechanisms and enforcement to improve air quality.