Identify the correct sequence with reference to environmental clearance process for new projects:

Correct option is B

Introduction:

• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process used to anticipate the environmental consequences of a proposed project before it is implemented.

• In India, this process is governed by the EIA Notification (2006) issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

• The clearance process ensures that developmental activities are sustainable and that potential negative impacts are mitigated through structured administrative stages.

Information Booster

• Screening → Scoping → Public Consultation → Appraisal is the statutory sequence for obtaining environmental clearance.
• The process begins with Screening to determine if the project requires a full EIA.
• Next is Scoping, where the specific environmental concerns and "Terms of Reference" (ToR) are identified.
• This is followed by Public Consultation, where local stakeholders and affected parties voice their concerns.
• Finally, Appraisal involves a detailed scrutiny of the final EIA report by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) before a recommendation is made for or against the project.
• Screening divides projects into Category 'A' (requiring Central clearance) and Category 'B' (requiring State clearance), determining the level of assessment needed.

• Scoping is the most critical technical stage as it defines the "boundaries" of the study and identifies the specific environmental parameters to be monitored.

• Public Consultation consists of two components: a public hearing at the site and inviting responses from others with a plausible stake in the environmental aspects.

• The Appraisal stage must be completed within a specific timeframe (typically 60 days) after the submission of the final EIA report to ensure administrative efficiency.

• Following Appraisal, the regulatory authority (MoEFCC or SEIAA) issues the final Environmental Clearance (EC) or rejects the proposal based on the findings.