---
title: "Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) — Definition"
description: "The CPCB is India's apex statutory pollution-control body under the 1974 Water Act, setting standards and coordinating State Boards. Key UPSC GS3 institution."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/central-pollution-control-board"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Central Pollution Control Board is India's statutory apex body for preventing and controlling air and water pollution, constituted under the Water Act of 1974.
- Under which law was the CPCB created, and how did it gain authority over air pollution?
- How does CPCB differ from the State Pollution Control Boards?
- What enforcement powers does CPCB actually hold?
- What is the relationship between CPCB and the National Air Quality Index?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In November 2023, the CPCB-coordinated Graded Response Action Plan imposed Stage IV curbs across Delhi-NCR—banning truck entry and construction—after the city's Air Quality Index breached the "Severe" 450 threshold.

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