<h4>Introduction to the National Ganga Council (NGC)</h4><p>The <strong>National Ganga Council (NGC)</strong>, officially known as the <strong>National Council for Rejuvenation, Protection and Management of River Ganga</strong>, is a pivotal body established for the holistic management of the River Ganga.</p><p>It plays a crucial role in overseeing the implementation of various initiatives aimed at cleaning and protecting the sacred river and its tributaries.</p><h4>Formation and Legal Mandate</h4><p>The <strong>NGC</strong> was formally constituted in the year <strong>2016</strong>.</p><div class="info-box"><p>Its establishment was done under the specific provisions of the <strong>Environment (Protection) Act, 1986</strong>. This Act provides the legal framework for environmental protection and improvement in India.</p></div><h4>Successor to NGRBA</h4><p>The formation of the <strong>National Ganga Council (NGC)</strong> marked a significant transition in India's river management strategy.</p><p>It succeeded the erstwhile <strong>National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)</strong>, which was dissolved prior to the NGC's constitution.</p><div class="key-point-box"><p>This transition aimed to streamline governance and enhance the effectiveness of programs like the <strong>Namami Gange Mission</strong>.</p></div><div class="exam-tip-box"><p>Remember the <strong>Environment (Protection) Act, 1986</strong> as the enabling legislation for <strong>NGC</strong>. This is a common point of inquiry in <strong>UPSC Prelims</strong>.</p></div>