Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

GS II: Structure, organisation and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is a government ministry of India.
• It is responsible for formulating and implementing policies and programs related to environmental protection, conservation of forests, and addressing climate change issues.
• The ministry’s primary focus is on sustainable development, environmental sustainability, and biodiversity conservation.

Key functions and responsibilities of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change include:

1. Environmental Protection: The ministry formulates and implements policies and regulations to protect and conserve the environment, prevent pollution, and ensure sustainable use of natural resources.
2. Conservation of Forests and Wildlife: It works towards the conservation and management of forests, wildlife, and biodiversity. The ministry supports initiatives for wildlife protection and the establishment of protected areas, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries.
3. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: The ministry addresses climate change-related issues, such as greenhouse gas emissions reduction, adaptation strategies, and international climate negotiations.
4. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): The MoEFCC is responsible for the environmental clearance process for various development projects, ensuring that they comply with environmental regulations and do not harm the environment.
5. Promoting Renewable Energy: The ministry supports the development and promotion of renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
6. National Action Plans: It formulates and implements national action plans on issues like air pollution control, waste management, and conservation of water resources.
7. Afforestation and Reforestation: The ministry promotes afforestation and reforestation activities to enhance forest cover and combat deforestation.
8. Wildlife Conservation and Protection: The ministry works towards protecting and conserving endangered species and their habitats.
9. International Agreements and Conventions: The MoEFCC represents India in international environmental forums and agreements, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, among others.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change plays a crucial role in policy formulation and implementation to address environmental challenges, protect natural resources, and contribute to global efforts in combatting climate change. It works in collaboration with various government departments, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies to achieve its goals for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for India.