There is good news on the environment front for Green warriors. In a notification issued by the Ministry of Environment & Forest (MoEF), those who could not file petitions before the National Green Tribunal at a time when it was not functional may do so within 60 days from May 30, 2011. According to Ministry sources, the first sitting of the National Green Tribunal will be held on July 4 and be headed by Justice LS Panta, The tribunal was set up last year to deal with environment litigation. The Supreme Court had earlier directed that the body be given publicity so aggrieved parties would know where to the file appropriate petitions within the stipulated time. Petitions which are filed within the aforesaid period shall not be treated as barred by time but instead be decided on the basis of merit. The parties shall also be entitled to file applications for interim relief before the National Green Tribunal. The official notification also states,