The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted in:

Correct option is C

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 was the first significant environmental legislation enacted in India to address water pollution. Its primary aim was to prevent and control water pollution by maintaining or restoring water quality. This Act also provided for the establishment of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to implement and monitor its provisions. The legislation was a milestone in India’s environmental protection efforts, paving the way for subsequent environmental laws.
Information Booster:
1. The Act was introduced to ensure the conservation of water resources.
2. It provides for the penalization of industries or individuals that pollute water bodies.
3. The Act empowers boards to set water quality standards and inspect industries.
4. CPCB monitors interstate water bodies, while SPCBs oversee state-level water quality.
5. It emphasizes both prevention and restoration measures for polluted water sources.