Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 Context: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has introduced changes to the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006. The changes aim to improve the environmental clearance process for projects across India. Objective The main objective is to avoid delays and administrative gaps in approving Category B projects when state-level environmental bodies are not functioning or are slow in processing applications. New Backup Authorities To ensure that project approvals continue without interruption, two permanent backup bodies have been created for every State/UT: Standing Authority on Environment Impact Assessment (SAEIA) – Performs the functions of the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) when it is not functioning. Standing Committee on Environment Impact Appraisal (SCEIA) – Takes over the responsibilities of the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) when required. Tenure These backup bodies will work for 6 months initially. Their tenure can be extended by another 6 months. The maximum total period is 1 year. Changes in Members' Tenure The tenure of members of SEIAA, SEAC, and the Central Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has been increased from 3 years to 4 years. Members can serve up to two terms. The maximum age limit is 70 years, which may be extended to 75 years in exceptional cases if qualified experts are not available. Renewal of State Bodies State governments must begin the renewal and reconstitution process for SEIAA and SEAC at least 6 months before their existing term ends. Removal of Members The Central Government can remove members of the EAC, SEIAA, or SEAC before the end of their term if they repeatedly cause unnecessary delays in granting environmental clearances. Automatic Escalation If a SEAC does not complete the appraisal of a project within 120 days, the proposal will be automatically transferred to the…
