Guidelines on Management of Pyro-metallurgical Slags

The guidelines also outline specific areas where iron and steel slags can be used, such as cement production, aggregate in cement-concrete, and construction of roads and railways. Iron and Steel plants intending to use slag for other purposes are required to submit proposals to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) through the respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committees (PCC).

Government Amends Ash Utilization Notification to Promote Eco-Friendly Practices

The Central Government is promoting the eco-friendly use of ash, especially in ash-based products manufactured by micro and small enterprises. These amendments seek to foster sustainable practices and utilize industrial by-products for constructive purposes. The move aims to strike a balance between environmental conservation and supporting small businesses engaged in ash-based product manufacturing.

Government Issues Insecticides (Seventh Amendment) Rules, 2023

This amendment aims to enhance the qualifications required for the roles of pest control operators within the ambit of insecticides regulation, ensuring a more informed and skilled workforce in the sector. The additional proviso mandates that individuals must have passed Class 12th or Higher Secondary Certificate Examination from a recognized Board or University.

Goa SPCB Issues Directions On Installation of OEMS

The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has issued a circular specifying further directions for installation of On-Line Effluent Monitoring Systems (OEMS) and Emission Monitoring Systems. These installations should be certified by institutions such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA), Monitoring Certification Scheme (MCERTS) and Technical Inspection Association (TUV). This shall be in force till Indian certifications are established.

National Transit Pass System (NTPS) for Seamless Forest Produce Transit Across India

The NTPS is set to replace the current system of state-specific transit permits with a unified, online “One Nation-One Pass” regime, simplifying the transportation process and contributing to the ease of doing business. Designed for user convenience, the NTPS features desktop and mobile applications for easy registration and permit applications. Users


Presidential Amendment Enhances Plant Protection Officer Recruitment Rules

This change signifies a reclassification of the service group for the Plant Protection Officer (Toxicology) role, reflecting a nuanced adjustment to the administrative structure within the Directorate. The move is expected to enhance the efficiency and functionality of the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine, and Storage, aligning it with evolving needs and standards.

Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report 2023

The report highlights that out of the total 6553 assessment units in the country, 736 units have been categorized as ‘Over-exploited,’ signaling areas where the extraction of ground water surpasses its replenishment. Notably, there has been a notable increase in ground water recharge, attributed to factors such as canal seepage, the return flow of irrigation water, and recharges from water bodies, tanks, and water conservation structures.