Stating that the existing 24X7 monitoring of industries for effluents in Tamil Nadu would be extended across the country, environment minister Jayanthi Natarajan today also favoured increasing penalty for violators.

Mooting self-regulation for private corporates to check pollution, she said instead of authorities keeping a vigil on them, the companies themselves should monitor and post details of effluent treatment process etc. on their websites.

Inaugurating a business ethics conference here, the minister said that currently there is a provision of 24/7 monitoring of industries for effluents by state pollution board in Tamil Nadu and under an institutional mechanism being brought by her ministry, this provision will be extended across the country.

"Right now, the penalty for violations are very low... The maximum penalty is Rs one lakh. I think that is something completely unacceptable for someone who spoils the environment," the minister said.