Correct answer: (a) 1974
Explanation
- A
1974
1974. This option states the exact year when the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted by the Parliament of India. It serves as the correct official key because it accurately marks the legislative milestone for water pollution regulation in the country.
- B
1975
1975. This option claims the enactment year was 1975, which incorrectly places the legislation a year later than its actual passage. It is not the key because the Act predates this by twelve months.
- C
1976
1976. This option suggests the Act was passed in 1976, coinciding roughly with the 42nd Constitutional Amendment and the creation of other environmental provisions. However, it fails to match the historical enactment date of the Water Act.
- D
1977
1977. This option proposes 1977 as the year of enactment, which is factually incorrect as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act was enacted in 1977, whereas the main pollution Act was passed earlier.
Summary. Official key is (a) 1974. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted in 1974 to provide for the prevention and control of water pollution and the maintaining or restoring of wholesomeness of water. Students often confuse this foundational legislation with the later Water Cess Act of 1977 or the Air Act of 1981. Knowing the exact sequence of environmental laws is crucial for civil services examinations. Option (a) correctly identifies the historical enactment year without any chronological errors.