When was Ganga Action Plan launched in India?

1985

The correct answer is option 2. 1985.

The Ganga Action Plan (GAP) was launched in India in 1985 with the primary objective of addressing and controlling the pollution of the Ganges River (also known as the Ganga). The Ganges is one of the most important and sacred rivers in India, but over time, it had become heavily polluted due to industrial discharges, untreated sewage, and other sources of contamination.

Key points about the Ganga Action Plan:

1. Initiation: The Ganga Action Plan was initiated under the Ministry of Environment and Forests to improve the water quality of the Ganges and restore its ecological balance.

2. Phases: The plan was implemented in two phases:

Phase I (1985-2000): The focus was on controlling point source pollution, i.e., direct discharges from industries and sewage treatment plants.

Phase II (2000 onwards):  Emphasized broader environmental management and pollution control measures, including non-point source pollution and integrated river basin management.

3. Components: The Ganga Action Plan included various components, such as the construction of sewage treatment plants, interception and diversion of untreated sewage, and initiatives for afforestation and solid waste management.

4. Challenges: Despite efforts under the Ganga Action Plan, challenges persisted due to population growth, urbanization, industrialization, and inadequate wastewater treatment infrastructure. As a result, the government continued to implement and evolve strategies for the conservation and rejuvenation of the Ganges.

5. National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG): In 2014, the Ganga Action Plan was further strengthened with the launch of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), which aims to integrate efforts for the comprehensive cleanup and protection of the Ganges.

The Ganga Action Plan and its subsequent phases have been part of ongoing efforts to restore and maintain the ecological health of the Ganges River, acknowledging its cultural, religious, and environmental significance.