(a) whether several small development projects of various States in the country have been affected for non-issue of the `No-objection certificate` from his ministry;
(b) if so, the details in this regard;
(c) whether any special provision has been made by the Government to implement small development projects;
(d) if so, the time schedule fixed for the purpose; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
(SHRI BABU LAL MARANDI)
(a), (b) & (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests accords environment/forest clearance for projects as per provisions of Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and notifications issued under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
The environment clearance Notification is not applicable to industrial projects costing less than rupees one crore and coming under the purview of small-scale sector. Further, a number of developmental activities are exempted from obtaining environment clearance if their cost is less than rupees 50 crores. Mining projects except those in areas covered by the Aravalli Notification require environmental clearance only if mining lease exceeds five hectares.
In respect of forest clearance, if the forest area is less than five hectares and does not involve mining and regularisation of encroachments, the Regional Office of the Ministry has been empowered to take decision. Simplified proforma and procedure has been laid down for items such as laying of pipelines for drinking water supply and transmission lines.
(d) Under EIA Notification as well as the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 decisions on proposals are taken within 90 days from the date of receipt of complete information.
(e) Does not arise.