MODULE-2 Flashcards
What are the three main procedures and safeguards that mining agencies must follow?
The three main procedures are:
- Environment Clearance under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006.
- Forest Diversion Approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
- Approval for use of areas protected for wildlife under the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972.
What is the process for obtaining Environment Clearance?
To obtain Environment Clearance, mining projects must:
- Prepare an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report based on Terms of Reference (ToR).
- Participate in a Public Hearing.
- Undergo appraisal by an expert committee based on the EIA and Public Hearing documents.
How are mining projects categorized for Environment Clearance?
Projects are categorized as Category A or Category B.
Category A projects require approval from the MoEFCC and include mining areas over 50 hectares or those near sensitive ecological areas.
Category B projects are approved by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA).
What is the process for obtaining Forest Diversion Approval?
To divert forest land for mining, a user agency must submit an application to the state forest department. The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) inspects the site and forwards recommendations to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), who then sends the proposal to the MoEFCC for approval.
Additional requirements include compensatory afforestation and payment of the Net Present Value (NPV) for forest land diversion. These funds are managed by the Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
What approvals are needed for mining in wildlife-protected areas?
For areas protected under the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972, permission must be sought from the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) or the Chief Wildlife Warden of the state, depending on the type of protected area involved.
