Centre Opts Against National Environmental Regulator, Continues Existing System

• Centre to continue existing environmental clearance system.
• No National Environmental Regulator (NER) will be established, rejecting a 2011 Supreme Court recommendation.
• Environmental clearances are granted by independent expert committees at central and state levels.
• The process is transparent and conducted through the online PARIVESH portal.
• National Green Tribunal (NGT) serves as an independent appellate authority for environmental clearances.

Why It Matters: Government's choice to keep existing environmental clearance system affects project oversight.