Question : BIODIVERSITY ACT, 2002

(a) whether many organizations including Non-Governmental Organisations, people movements and citizens have criticized and ignorance of people’s participation and serving particular interests in matters relating to environment;

(b) if so, the interests underlined by these organisations;

(c) whether rules notified under the Biodiversity Act, 2002 weakens the role of local groups in protecting biodiversity and traditional knowledge;

(d) if so, whether groups engaged in the environment sector have indicated its shortcomings;

(e) if so, the details thereof; and

(f) the steps taken by the Government to prohibit clearance of developmental projects without ascertaining the effect on environment and without making assessment in this regard ?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA )

(a)&(b) Various Organisations and individuals stress for people’s participation in matters relating to environment and the policies and programmes of the Government to ensure maximum stakeholders’ involvement in various schemes. The Government has a policy of stakeholders consultation in such matters.

(c),(d)&(e): The rules notified under Biodiversity Act, 2002 are in accordance with the Act passed by the Parliament and adequately provide for role of local groups in protecting Biodiversity and traditional knowledge. Apprehensions of some groups regarding infirmity in the rules are factually not correct.

(f) Environmental Impact Assessment for obtaining prior environmental clearance has been made mandatory for 32 categories of development projects in the sectors of industry, thermal power, mining, river valley, infrastructure and nuclear power under the Environmental Impact Assessment notification 1994 .