List-out the projects/activities for which public consultation is not required for issue of prior Environmental Clearance.
In short
Under the EIA Notification 2006 and its amendments, public consultation is not needed for Category B2 projects, irrigation modernisation, units in approved industrial estates, building and township projects, road expansion without new land, biomedical waste facilities and defence projects. A 2019 amendment also exempted oil and gas exploratory drilling.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 260 words
Modernisation of Irrigation Projects
Modernisation of existing irrigation projects is exempted, as it involves little fresh land acquisition; major new projects like Polavaram are not, and went through full hearings. Projects in approved industrial estates, building and township projects, road expansion without new land acquisition, and defence and strategic projects are also exempted.
EIA Notification and Amendments
The 2006 Notification and its amendments, such as the COVID-19 re-categorization of bulk drug projects from Category A to B2, legally exempt certain projects from public consultation. These changes aim to balance environmental safeguards with urgent public health and economic needs.
Sectoral Incentives
The 2019 amendment exempting onshore and offshore oil and gas exploratory drilling from public consultation encourages exploration despite ecological concerns. This reflects a policy choice to promote energy security while managing environmental risks.
Local Engagement and Technology
Incorporating stakeholder inputs in Andhra Pradesh, especially in sensitive zones like the Rayalaseema drought belt, and using virtual consultations can balance efficiency with inclusiveness, ensuring community concerns are addressed even for exempted projects.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2016 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.