Archive · 30 Jul 2026
20 Infrastructure Projects Clear Environmental Approvals in Protected Areas
The Indian government said that 20 new projects in protected forests and wildlife areas got the green light from the environment ministry.
Before a project can start, it must go through a two‑step review.
First, experts check if it will hurt the environment.
Second, wildlife officials confirm it won’t harm animals.
The government also set rules to protect animals, clean up pollution, plant trees, and keep an eye on the area.
The minister explained this in the parliament in New Delhi.
Twenty projects in protected areas or eco‑sensitive zones received environmental clearances for FY24‑26.
Projects must pass a multi‑tier review by the Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee or State Expert Appraisal Committee.
A second tier requires wildlife clearance under the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
Safeguards include wildlife protection, habitat conservation, pollution control, compensatory plantation, and monitoring.
Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh highlighted the stringent approval process during a Rajya Sabha session.
- Who
- Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh
- What
- Announced that 20 infrastructure projects received environmental clearances in protected areas or eco‑sensitive zones
- When
- Financial years 2024-26
- Where
- Rajya Sabha, New Delhi
- Why
- To ensure projects meet stringent environmental safeguards
- Number of projects
- 20
- Financial years
- 2024-26
- Approval bodies
- Expert Appraisal Committee / State Expert Appraisal Committee
- Wildlife clearance required
- Yes
- Key safeguards
- Wildlife protection, habitat conservation, pollution control, compensatory plantation, monitoring