The government will hold a two-day national conference next week as a final step of consultations before bringing amendments in existing green laws and also launch a comprehensive National Air Quality Index to inform people about air quality.
Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar today said the conference, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who will also launch the Index, will be attended by environment ministers and scientists from across the states.
Javadekar said that the Ministers and officials will brainstorm on proposed changes in the six environment laws apart from reflecting upon "simplification" of existing processes and ensure "strict" compliance of green norms.
"After the April 6-7 conference, we will finalise our recommendations, prepare the cabinet note and bring it before the cabinet so that the bills as amended can be brought in the second half of Parliament session," he said.
The Minister also said that the National Air Quality Index - one colour, one number and one description - will be launched to inform public about air quality in "simple and understandable form".
"On real time basis, from that day, AQI would be available in ten cities. 46 cities with million plus population and other 20 state capitals will be covered in the next couple of years. This would enhance public awareness and involvement in air quality improvement," he told reporters.
Javadekar said a copy of the latest Tiger census report will be presented to the Prime Minister during the conference.
Giving details of the conference, he said the first day will have two sessions each on 'Waste to Wealth' and 'Ease of doing business and TSR report'.
"The processes need to be made simpler and norms stricter so that delay is avoided. We will issue new rules regarding, solid waste, liquid waste, e-waste, hazardous waste, plastic waste, bio-waste, medical waste etc," he said adding that the session will also be important in the context of making "Swacch Bharat Mission" successful.
