This refers to the editorial "Looking for a step forward" (March 24). First, it suggested that the current consent level of 80 per cent should be the focus of discussion in Parliament. If the government is clear about its agenda and is efficient in its communication by also addressing the compensation issue of the farmers, thereby taking them into confidence, then I think farmers are mature enough to give their consent, irrespective of the Opposition's ballyhoo.
Second, it suggested that a time frame should be allocated for a social impact assessment (SIA), failing which the project is statutorily deemed to be approved. Politicians with vested interests might deliberately delay the process of an SIA, thereby benefitting the interested party without even acknowledging the cost to environment.
Finally, 60 per cent of notified land is lying vacant under the United Progressive Alliance's Special Economic Zone scheme. Instead of creating a framework for utilising the unutilised land, why is the National Democratic Alliance government so focussed on acquiring new ones?
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Second, it suggested that a time frame should be allocated for a social impact assessment (SIA), failing which the project is statutorily deemed to be approved. Politicians with vested interests might deliberately delay the process of an SIA, thereby benefitting the interested party without even acknowledging the cost to environment.
Finally, 60 per cent of notified land is lying vacant under the United Progressive Alliance's Special Economic Zone scheme. Instead of creating a framework for utilising the unutilised land, why is the National Democratic Alliance government so focussed on acquiring new ones?
Vinay Helwande Mumbai
Letters can be mailed, faxed or e-mailed to:
The Editor, Business Standard
Nehru House, 4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
New Delhi 110 002
Fax: (011) 23720201
E-mail: letters@bsmail.in
All letters must have a postal address and telephone number