Green hurdles

It is unquestionable that India’s states are where dynamic policy decisions are being taken, and where innovative solutions to the country’s chronic lack of infrastructure, skills and jobs are being developed. Unfortunately, the Centre is not precisely being a supportive partner. As three different chief ministers — belonging to the Congress and the BJP — put on record at the India Economic Summit in Mumbai on Monday, environmental clearances in particular are serving as a massive roadblock to state ambitions. No project smaller than five hectares can be given a go-ahead without direct clearances from the ministry of environment and forests in Delhi, whether or not it abuts a protected zone.

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