Protection and conservation of the environment is increasingly becoming important, especially in light of observed climate change which has devastating consequences for the survival of humanity. In this context, effective environmental governance by the executive is of outmost importance.  Accordingly, the thrust of this audit report is to highlight issues relateng to the adequacy and effectiveness of programmes, schemes and interventions made by the Ministry of Environment and Forests to tackle important environmental issues like deforestation, biodiversity, control of pollution etc.  This report also contains 37 specific recommendations.  The findings of audit and the recomendations made in this report are expected to enable the executive to take corrective action as also to frame policies and directives that will lead to improved environmental governance. This report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India relates to matters arising from audit of the transactions and the performance of the Ministry of Environment and Forests.