A Panorama on the Evolution, Process, and Changes of EIA in India and Its Evaluation Using SOAR Analysis

Abstract

Economic development and environmental degradation are usually inversely proportional to each other and this can be reversed by endorsing more eco-competent growth policies. Although with the prompt economic growth, the concern of environmental sustainability is still a major challenge for every country. EIA since its inception has been considered as a holistic tool in assessing the potential impacts of developmental projects on the natural environment. EIA in India was first launched in 1994 and since then it has been undergoing a renaissance, and now several developmental projects have to obtain necessary environmental clearance as per the EIA notification 2006. This paper focuses on a critical overview of the evolution, process, and changes. Evaluation of the process using SOAR analysis helps in increasing the transparency and efficacy in the EIA. This research finally concludes by inferring that EIA if exercised properly shall not only ensure a clean and healthy environment but also shall aid the nation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).