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VOL. I · EST. 11.2025 
SatyaDheesh
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During a hearing at the National Green Tribunal, the Tamil Nadu government

GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims + Mains·

Environmental Jurisprudence: balancing cultural practices with pollution mitigation for GS3.

Why in news

The Tamil Nadu government informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that it will ban Ganesh idol immersion at Chennai's Foreshore Estate and Neelankarai beaches starting next year to curb water pollution.

Background

The Tamil Nadu government aims to stop idol immersions in natural water bodies by 2027. The petitioner argued that plaster of Paris, paints, and chemicals from idols pollute water bodies and suggested using artificial ponds as alternatives.

Facts for Prelims

  • BodyNational Green Tribunal (NGT): A specialized body for adjudication of environmental disputes.
  • PlaceForeshore Estate and Neelankarai beaches: Locations in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, where immersion was banned.
  • FactTarget year: The government aims to stop immersions in natural water bodies by 2027.

Prelims practice question

With reference to the Tamil Nadu government's move on idol immersion, consider the following statements:

  1. The ban includes Foreshore Estate and Neelankarai beaches in Chennai.
  2. The move is intended to curb water pollution caused by plaster of Paris and chemicals.
  3. The government aims to stop idol immersions in natural water bodies by 2025.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. (a)1 and 2 only
  2. (b)1 and 3 only
  3. (c)2 and 3 only
  4. (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The government aims to stop immersions in natural water bodies by 2027.

For Mains

Q. Discuss the conflict between religious practices and environmental conservation in India. How can the state balance cultural traditions with the need to protect natural water bodies from pollution?

Dimensions to cover in your answer

  • Regulatory friction: Balancing the right to freedom of religion with the state's duty to protect the environment.
  • Infrastructure gap: Lack of standardized artificial ponds and waste management systems for religious artifacts.
  • Enforcement hurdles: Managing law-and-order issues during the transition to new immersion sites.

Keywords: Environmental Jurisprudence · Pollution Mitigation · Sustainable Religious Practices · Public Order · Regulatory Compliance

Read the full news →Report a mistake in this noteSource: NDTV ↗

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