The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is the apex regulatory body established under Section 3 & 4 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. It is constituted by the Central Government and functions at the national level.

The CPCB is composed of a full-time Chairman nominated by the Central Government, up to five members from the Centre, up to five members from State Boards, up to three members of specific interest, up to two representatives from public sector undertakings, and one full-time Member Secretary (maximum 17 members including the Chairman).

Its primary functions include advising the Central Government on air quality improvement, setting national ambient air quality standards, coordinating activities of State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), promoting research, and monitoring air quality across the country.