Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
UPSC frequently examines the effectiveness of environmental regulations, the balance between development and conservation, and the challenges in implementing EIA, particularly for large infrastructure projects in fragile ecosystems like the Himalayas.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a statutory process in India under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, requiring prior environmental clearance for various development projects. It aims to identify, predict, evaluate, and mitigate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of a project before its implementation.