Environment & Ecology GS 3 In the news 6 times

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

CAQM was established by the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021, replacing earlier ad-hoc mechanisms. It is a statutory body with powers to issue binding directions to state governments and ULBs on air quality management in the NCR and adjoining areas. Its directions supersede those of state governments (except the Central Government), giving it strong enforcement teeth.

Key details

Established: 2021; powers under CAQM Act 2021
Jurisdiction: Delhi-NCR and the states of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh for actions affecting NCR air quality
Powers: Can issue directions to states/ULBs, prosecute violators, take suo motu cognizance, impose penalties
CAQM replaced the Supreme Court-appointed EPCA (Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority)
GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan): Implemented by CAQM; a tiered system of restrictions based on AQI levels (Stage I–IV), including bans on firecrackers, truck entry, construction

In the news

● Tracked since February 10, 2026 · last seen August 20, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes

20 Aug '26

CAQM directs Delhi-NCT to ban diesel, petrol, CNG light goods vehicles from January 2027, to be replaced by EVs

Environment & Ecology

20 Jun '26

From waste to wealth: Why crop residue burning is a system’s failure, not a seasonal

Environment & Ecology

07 May '26

CAQM reviews preparedness of States for elimination of Stubble Burning in 2026; stresses Strengthened Enforcement, Crop Residue Management and Coordinated Action

Environment & Ecology

26 Feb '26