← All questionsGS3 · 2015 · Environment ·Namami Gange and Ganga Cleaning
QUESTION 15
GS3
12.5 marks

Discuss the Namami Gange and National Mission for Clean Ganga programmes and causes of mixed results from previous schemes. What quantum leaps can help preserve the river Ganga better than incremental inputs?

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9 min
200 words
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What the examiner wants

Discuss Namami Gange and NMCG, why past Ganga schemes gave mixed results, and what big changes are needed.

DiscussExplain the different sides of the issue, use evidence, and finish with a balanced view.

Demand-wise check

  1. 1Programmes: Namami Gange (2015, Rs 20,000 crore) - sewage, industrial effluent, riverfront, afforestation, biodiversity; NMCG as implementing body≈35 words
  2. 2Past failures (GAP 1985, NGRBA 2009): low STP capacity and use, power cuts, poor O&M, state apathy, industrial non-compliance, low flow≈35 words
  3. 3Quantum leaps: e-flow norms, hybrid annuity for STPs, real-time monitoring, river basin approach, legal status (Ganga Act)≈35 words
  4. 4Community: Ganga Praharis, Arth Ganga, clean ghats≈35 words

Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.

Answer plan

ProgrammesReasons for past mixed resultsQuantum leapsConclusion

Where marks usually go

  • Not explaining 'quantum leaps' vs incremental steps
  • Missing ecological flow

Draw this

  • Ganga basin map with pollution hotspots and STP locations

Value addition

  • RuleThe October 2018 notification set minimum ecological flows for the Ganga to keep the river alive.Ministry of Jal Shakti, 2018
  • RecognitionUN recognised Namami Gange as one of the top 10 World Restoration Flagships in December 2022.UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, 2022

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