How does the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020 differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006?
Introduction
The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) process evaluates projects' environmental consequences. The draft EIA Notification, 2020, proposed significant changes to the existing 2006 framework, sparking debate.
Key Differences between EIA 2006 and Draft EIA 2020
- Post-facto clearance: 2020 draft allowed projects to seek clearance post-commencement, unlike 2006 which required prior approval.
- Public consultation: Reduced the public hearing notice period from 30 days (2006) to 20 days (2020 draft).
- Exemptions: Expanded the list of projects exempt from public consultation, including linear and some strategic projects.
- Compliance reporting: Shifted from half-yearly (2006) to annual reporting (2020 draft) by project proponents.
- Reporting violations: Restricted reporting to project proponents or government authorities, excluding public complaints allowed in 2006.
- Strategic projects: Introduced a category where information would not be publicly disclosed, a new provision.
Conclusion
These proposed changes raised concerns about diluted environmental safeguards and reduced public participation, potentially impacting environmental governance and sustainable development.
139 words · target ~150
The directive 'discuss' requires presenting a comprehensive comparison of the differences between the two notifications, highlighting various aspects and their implications.
Suggested structure
Introduction: Brief context of EIA and the 2020 draft
Key Differences: Comparative analysis of EIA 2020 draft vs. EIA 2006
Implications/Concerns: Brief mention of potential impacts of the changes
Conclusion: Summarize and offer a balanced perspective
Key points
Post-facto clearance: 2020 draft allowed for projects to apply for clearance even after starting work, unlike 2006.
Public consultation period: Reduced from 30 days (2006) to 20 days (2020 draft).
Exemptions: 2020 draft expanded the list of projects exempt from public consultation (e.g., linear projects, some strategic projects).
Compliance reporting: Changed from every six months (2006) to annually (2020 draft).
Reporting violations: 2020 draft limited who could report violations (only project proponents or government authorities), unlike 2006 which allowed public reporting.
Strategic projects: 2020 draft introduced a category of 'strategic projects' where information would not be placed in the public domain.
Common mistakes
Generic description of EIA without specific differences between the two notifications.
Lack of factual accuracy regarding the specific provisions of 2006 and 2020.
Failing to structure the answer as a comparative analysis.
Overlooking the 'draft' aspect and treating it as a final, implemented notification.
Difficulty: Medium — Requires specific knowledge of the provisions of both the existing EIA Notification, 2006, and the controversial draft EIA Notification, 2020, rather than general understanding. Students need to recall precise comparative points across multiple parameters.