Question raised in Rajya Sabha on EIA clearances for developmental projects, 09/05/2016. The EIA Notification, 2006 has categorized the projects into two categories namely; Category ‘A’ and Category ‘B’ based on their impact potential. Category ‘A’ projects are being appraised at the Central level (MoEFCC) while Category ‘B’ project at the State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs). The SEIAAs have been constituted by the Ministry for the purpose of appraisal of Category ‘B’ projects. As per the EIA Notification, 2006, only following project/activities require prior environment clearance (i) all new projects or activities listed in the Schedule to this notification; (ii) expansion and modernization of existing projects or activities listed in the Schedule to this notification with addition of capacity beyond the limits specified for the concerned sector, that is, projects or activities which cross the threshold limits given in the Schedule, after expansion or modernization; and (iii) any change in product – mix in an existing manufacturing unit included in Schedule beyond the specified range, require prior environment clearance. A total of 8353 projects have been granted environmental clearance since 2006.