Establishment: Statutory body under CAQM Act, 2021.
Mandate: Coordination, research, monitoring, prevention & control of air pollution in Delhi-NCR and adjoining states (Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, UP).
Functions/Powers:
- Restrict activities affecting air quality.
- Research & prepare codes/guidelines on pollution control.
- Issue binding directions/orders (including inspections & regulations).
- Directly accountable to Parliament.
Composition:
- Chairperson: Rank of Secretary/Chief Secretary (tenure: 3 years / till 70 years).
- Ex-officio members: 5 (Chief Secretaries/Environment Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, UP).
- Full-time technical members: 3.
- NGO representatives: 3.
- Other technical members: From CPCB, ISRO, NITI Aayog.
Relevance: Key role in tackling Delhi’s winter air pollution, especially stubble burning.