State the functions of the Central Pollution Board constituted under AIR (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

According to section 16 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the main functions of the Central Board are to improve the quality of the air and to prevent, control or abate air pollution in the country. In particular and without prejudice to the generality of the above functions, the Central Board may: advise the Central Government on any matter concerning the improvement of the quality of air and prevention, control or abatement of air pollution; plan and cause to be executed a nation-wide programme for the prevention, control or abatement of air pollution; co-ordinate the activities of the State Boards and resolve disputes among them; provide technical assistance and guidance to the State Boards, carry out and sponsor investigations and research relating to problems of air pollution and prevention, control or abatement of air pollution. perform such of the function of any State Board as may be specified in an order made under Subsection (2) of Section 18. plan and organize the training of persons engaged or to be engaged in programmes for the prevention, control and abatement of air pollution on such terms and conditions as the Central Board may specify; organise through mass media, a comprehensive programme regarding the prevention, control or abatement of air pollution; collect, compile and publish technical and statistical data relating to air pollution and the measures devised for its effective prevention, control and abatement and prepare manuals, codes or guides relating to prevention, control or abatement of air pollution; lay down standards for the quality of air; collect and disseminate information in respect of matters relating to air pollution; perform such other functions as may be prescribed. establish or recognise a laboratory or laboratories to enable the Central Board to perform its functions efficiently.