On the request of the Ministry of Defence and the Department of Atomic Energy, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) exempted mining projects linked to national defence from public hearings under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), 2006 process.

• Exempted projects include mining of atomic minerals (uranium, thorium, monazite etc.) and critical/strategic minerals (lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, etc.) notified under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023.

Why These Projects Were Exempted?

• National security & strategy: These minerals are tied to India’s defense, nuclear energy, and other sensitive sectors.
• To cut imports: Secures domestic lithium, cobalt, rare earths, uranium to reduce foreign reliance, esp., China.
• Attract investment: Streamlines clearances for quicker, predictable business for investors.

Issues with exempting Public Consultation

• Undermines Legal Mandate: Public consultation is a statutory requirement under EIA, 2006.
• Erodes Transparency and Accountability: Communities may remain unaware of projects, weakening democratic oversight.
• Triggers Conflict: Absence of early engagement can lead to protests, litigation, or unrest.
• Precedent for dilution of EIA norms: Frequent exemptions set a precedent, diluting environmental governance.