Green Min to seek States' views on amendments in existing laws

The Environment Ministry will meet the Chief Ministers and State Environment Ministers on April 6-7 for final consultations on the proposed changes in the existing green laws to help link them with country’s development and economic growth agenda.  The two-day meeting will be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to sources, the States have been asked to present their views on the proposed amendments and also  set up State-level environment monitoring authorities to take care of implementation of various projects.  The green laws under scanner include Environment Protection Act (1986), Forest Conservation Act (1980), Wildlife Protection Act 1972), The Indian Forest Act (1927) and the Air (Prevention & Pollution) Control Act- 1974. 

Sources indicated that an umbrella environment law may be on the anvil which will subsume existing legislations and set up Central and State level environmental management authorities. A draft green law, based on the key recommendations of the TSR Subramanian committee, has also been circulated among the States. According to the sources, the proposed law will revise application process for environmental clearance through a  single window. The linear projects/ strategic border projects, besides mining and power, are likely to receive special treatment. 

There would be environmental mapping of the country to identify regions where projects can/cannot be allowed.  Further, the new law or amended legislation is likely to have provisions of civil penalties along with criminal penalties for violation of environmental laws. According to sources, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau may henceforth be authorised to file complaints in courts. 

Stress would also be on better management of pollution by setting up a National laboratory for monitoring the quality of air and water. New system will also be in place for solid waste management. 

The Ministry will prepare its final draft after the CMs meeting. A Bill in this regard is expected to be introduced in the forthcoming Budget Session.