UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

The Water Act, 1974 is one of India’s earliest comprehensive environmental laws. Its main aim is to prevent and control water pollution and to maintain or restore the wholesomeness of water. It establishes central and state Pollution Control Boards with powers to set effluent standards, monitor discharges and take action against violators. Thus, the option that refers directly to prevention and control of water pollution correctly states the Act’s purpose.

Option A:
Option A is correct because it reflects the Act’s focus on water quality in rivers, lakes and other water bodies. By regulating industrial effluents and sewage discharges, it seeks to protect both ecological health and human uses of water.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect; while dams may relate to water management, their promotion is not the objective of this pollution control law. Dam construction is handled under other development policies.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because groundwater mining rights are governed by separate rules and state-level regulations. The Water Act is primarily about pollution, not ownership or extraction rights.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect since designation of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries is covered by wildlife and forest legislation, not by the Water Act.