A CRITICAL STUDY ON PARTICIPATION OF PUBLIC IN ENVIRONMENTAL DECISION MAKING WITH REFERENCE TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT NOTIFICATION (2020) IN INDIA

This study explores public perceptions of the draft, analyzing its implications for sustainable environmental governance through empirical research conducted in Chennai, with a sample size of 202 respondents. Independent variables such as age, gender, education, employment status, and place of residence were examined against dependent variables including awareness of the draft, familiarity with exemptions, performance of clearance authorities, public participation, and other relevant factors. Statistical analyses, including one-way ANOVA, chi-square, and correlation tests, were conducted using SPSS. The study is relevant as it evaluates the public's role in environmental decision-making within a democratic framework, offering insights into the readiness of EIA policies to align with global sustainability goals. Findings reveal low public satisfaction with the EIA 2020 draft, with respondents emphasizing the reduction in public hearing periods, exemption of critical projects, and limited avenues for reporting violations as detrimental to environmental protection. The study underscores a significant lack of trust in the draft's potential enforcement and highlights the need for enhanced transparency, biannual compliance reports, and inclusive public hearings to strengthen citizen involvement. Future research should broaden geographical coverage to offer more comprehensive insights. The findings strongly suggest dissatisfaction with the EIA 2020 draft, reflecting concerns over its potential to undermine public participation and weaken environmental safeguards