Assessing The Impact of Environmental Policy 2006: A Critical Examination

The Environmental Policy of India, 2006, plays a significant role in shaping the country's approach towards environmental protection and sustainable development. This research critically analyses the provisions and implementation of the policy, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. The research begins by providing an overview of the Environmental Policy, 2006, highlighting its objectives and key principles. It delves into the policy's legal framework, including relevant statutes, regulations, and international conventions, which form the basis for environmental governance in India. The study explores the role of various governmental agencies and stakeholders in implementing and enforcing the policy. An important aspect of the analysis is the examination of key challenges and shortcomings associated with the Environmental Policy, 2006. These encompass issues such as weak enforcement mechanisms, lack of coordination among agencies, and inadequate allocation of resources. The research presents case studies and examples to illustrate real-life situations and highlight the practical implications of the policy. Furthermore, the study explores the impact of the policy on various sectors, including industrial activities, infrastructure development, and natural resource management. It assesses the degree to which the policy promotes sustainable practices and considers the balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. To provide a comprehensive analysis, the research also evaluates the compatibility of the Environmental Policy, 2006, with international environmental norms and commitments, particularly India's obligations under global climate change agreements. Finally, the research concludes with a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Environmental Policy, 2006. These recommendations focus on strengthening enforcement mechanisms, promoting public participation, improving coordination among agencies, and incorporating principles of environmental justice. Through this critical analysis, the research aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on environmental governance in India and provide insights for policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the Environmental Policy, 2006, this study seeks to support the formulation of more robust and sustainable environmental policies in the future.


INTRODUCTION
India's environmental challenges have grown in scale and complexity, necessitating an integrated policy response. 1The National Environmental Policy enacted in 2006 aims to mainstream environmental concerns across all development activities. 2 This research critically analyses the Environmental Policy, 2006 across ten dimensions to evaluate its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.The introductory section establishes the historical context and summarizes the policy's key provisions and objectives.The 2006 policy expanded India's environmental regulation into a comprehensive, multisectoral strategy. 3The policy aims to promote sustainable development, increase resource use efficiency, and strengthen accountability.The policy evaluation framework outlines the methodology and criteria employed to assess the Environmental Policy, 2006.The strengths and limitations of this analytical approach are also discussed.The framework facilitates a robust evidence-based analysis of the policy's legal basis, implementation, impacts, and performance across social, economic and environmental parameters.The legal analysis examines the policy's compatibility with domestic laws and international obligations.It also evaluates the soundness and enforceability of the legal provisions underpinning the policy.Implementation and effectiveness are assessed by analysing institutional arrangements and evaluating outcomes against stated objectives.The policy's approach to impact assessments, sustainability considerations, and stakeholder participation is also scrutinized.Compliance and enforcement mechanisms are evaluated regarding their adequacy and effectiveness in ensuring adherence.Comparative analysis of similar policies globally and identification of international best practices provide useful insights for enhancing India's environmental policy framework.Areas requiring reform are identified based on the research findings.Recommendations are presented for strengthening the existing policy and shaping future policy in light of emerging challenges.

SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The scope of this research encompasses a comprehensive analytical study of India's Environmental Policy enacted in 2006.The aim is to critically evaluate the policy framework along key parameters and provide evidence-based recommendations for enhancing the national environmental regulatory regime.The analysis examines the policy's legal basis, compatibility with domestic laws and global obligations, implementation mechanisms, outcomes, and provisions for impact assessment, sustainability, stakeholder engagement, compliance and enforcement.The strengths and weaknesses of the policy's design, execution and results are evaluated to identify binding constraints and opportunities for reform.In terms of methodology, the study adopts a qualitative approach involving extensive review of academic literature, policy documents, official reports, and expert commentaries.Quantitative data from government databases is also analysed where relevant.The evidentiary base combines theoretical perspectives and empirical findings to facilitate an objective, balanced assessment.The time period covered focuses on the twelve years since the policy's enactment, allowing for an evaluation of its outcomes and impacts.The geographical scope encompasses national-level implementation, while highlighting state-level case studies.The thematic scope spans key sectors addressed by the policy including water, air, waste management, forests, biodiversity conservation, climate change, and environmental regulation of industries and infrastructure projects.The policy's influence across social, economic, ecological, technological and political dimensions is examined.The analysis investigates linkages with India's sustainable development objectives, national and international environmental commitments, and evolving governance challenges. 4Comparative case studies of similar policies in other countries provide useful insights.India learn from global experience?6.Which aspects of the policy require reform to enhance its effectiveness?What amendments or innovations would strengthen India's environmental policy framework?7. What emerging environmental realities and challenges have implications for the future evolution of India's environmental policy?How can the framework be shaped considering future needs and priorities?

HYPOTHESIS
The overarching hypothesis guiding this research is that while India's Environmental Policy enacted in 2006 was a milestone, it has failed to effectively achieve its sustainability objectives due to limitations in formulation, capacity constraints in implementation, and lagging policy evolution amid emerging challenges.Specifically, it is hypothesized that: 1.The policy provides an inadequate legal and institutional framework for mainstreaming environmental protection across sectors due to gaps, conflicting priorities and coordination failures.2. Implementation of the policy has been sub-optimal, marred by deficiencies in capacities, funding, political will, and monitoring systems.3. Provisions for impact assessments, sustainability considerations, stakeholder engagement, compliance and enforcement are either lacking or ineffective in practice.4. As a result, the policy has not significantly improved environmental decision-making, governance, or sustainability outcomes.Environmental degradation continues across key parameters.• Email: editor@ijfmr.comIJFMR23056179 Volume 5, Issue 5, September-October 2023 4 5. Compared internationally, India's environmental policy framework falls short on leveraging best practices regarding prioritization, decentralization, participation, and integration.6. Significant reforms are imperative to address inherent limitations, improve implementation, inject new capacities, and bring the policy framework up to speed with emerging realities.The alternative hypothesis is that the Environmental Policy, 2006 provides a robust, evolving framework that has strengthened over time through effective implementation, participation, enforcement and learning.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This research adopts a qualitative methodology involving extensive review of academic literature, policy documents, government reports, and expert commentaries.Relevant quantitative data from official databases is analysed where suitable.The analytical approach examines the Environmental Policy, 2006 from multiple lenses to facilitate an objective, holistic assessment.The legal analysis involves studying the policy's constitutional and legislative bases and its coherence with domestic and international obligations.Evaluating implementation and effectiveness is done through process-tracing and analysing outcomes against stated goals.Provisions for impact assessment, sustainability, participation and enforcement are scrutinized for adequacy and efficacy.Comparative analysis benchmarks the policy against best practices globally.Recommendations blend theoretical insights and empirical findings to strengthen the policy framework.The methodology integrates multidisciplinary perspectives spanning law, public policy, political economy and environmental sustainability.The objective is to undertake evidence-based analysis to identify achievements, limitations and opportunities for enhancing India's environmental policy regime.

LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY
While striving to provide an objective, evidence-based analysis, this research faces certain limitations that warrant acknowledgement.Firstly, as a qualitative study, the reliance on secondary literature and documents constrains the inclusion of latest empirical insights and primary data that could enrich the evaluation.The 12-year timeframe since policy enactment also limits analysis of long-term impacts.Secondly, the national-level focus, while necessary for feasibility, overlooks granular state and local-level experiences that would illuminate nitty-gritties of implementation issues.Thirdly, the multidisciplinary nature of the analysis runs the risk of insufficient depth in the specialized aspects of law, public administration, economics and environmental science intersecting in the policy.Fourthly, the focus on the Environmental Policy's provisions and frameworks may miss the influence of political economy factors, vested interests and grassroots realities shaping outcomes.Fifthly, the benchmarking of best practices risks recommending model policy prescriptions without adaptation to context-specific challenges.Lastly, the analysis reflects the interpretations and subjective assessments of the researcher, despite efforts at objectivity.While not undermining the research, acknowledging these limitations provides clarity on its boundaries and spots scope for further exploration.The focused attempt provides productive insights on the Environmental Policy, 2006 but is far from the final word.Further studies leveraging primary data and field research, adopted state/local lenses, specialized sectoral focus, political economy perspectives and longitudinal data could deepen understanding and inform action.

OVERVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, 2006 A. HISTORICAL CONTEXT AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, 2006
Environmental consciousness in India traces back to the 1970s when legislative action commenced to tackle growing ecological challenges. 5The Water Act (1974) and Air Act (1981) addressed pollution concerns, while the Forest Conservation Act (1980) and Wildlife Protection Act (1972) aimed to preserve forests and protect endangered species respectively.6However, the absence of an overarching environmental policy implied that ecological considerations continued to be secondary to development priorities.Unplanned industrialization and intensive agriculture caused ecological damage and sustainability risks. 7The UN Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio in 1992 was a turning point, catalysing the Indian government to establish a Ministry of Environment and Forests in the same year.The National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on Environment and Development (1992) outlined priorities including participatory forest management, strengthening environmental impact assessments (EIAs), and integrating environment in decision-making.Thereafter, new laws like the Environment (Protection) Act (1986), National Environment Tribunal Act (1995), and National Environment Appellate Authority Act (1997) furthered environmental jurisprudence.But the approach remained fragmented. 8The Environmental Policy of 2006 represented the first comprehensive framework for inter-sectoral integration of environmental priorities in development planning and execution.The policy aimed to extend regulatory oversight, strengthen implementation and compliance, and inject environmental considerations in all economic sectors.The National Green Tribunal Act of 2010 was a milestone, setting up specialized environmental courts.The 2006 policy also spawned the National Action Plan on Climate Change and the National Environment Policy of 2011 which expanded focus areas further. 9In summary, the Environmental Policy of 2006 marked a critical evolution in India's environmental governance -seeding a strategic, mainstreamed approach to replace piecemeal laws.Its legacy has influenced environmental regulation over the past decade.

B. SUMMARY OF KEY PROVISIONS AND OBJECTIVES
The National Environmental Policy 2006 provides an overarching framework to integrate environmental concerns into all development activities. 10Its key provisions and objectives are highlighted below: • Mainstreaming environmental concerns across sectors: The policy mandates that environmental issues be mainstreamed in policy making, planning and implementation processes.All ministries must integrate environmental safeguards in respective sectoral policies and plans. 11 • Regulatory oversight and enforcement: Independent regulatory institutions are to be strengthened for environmental clearance, compliance, monitoring and enforcement functions.Penalties for noncompliance are to be enhanced. 12• Ecologically sustainable development: Economic growth must account for ecological constraints and environmental costs.The policy prioritizes the 'polluter pays' principle and preservation of natural capital. 13 Precautionary approach: The lack of scientific certainty must not delay measures to prevent environmental degradation.Alternatives with least environmental costs are to be prioritized. 14 Strategic EIA: Environmental impact assessments (EIA) are mandated for all new development projects, with provisions for continuous monitoring and mitigation plans. 15 Decentralized governance: Decision making powers are to be decentralized to urban and rural local bodies, along with strengthening their capacities on environmental management. 16 Partnerships: Multi-stakeholder partnerships between communities, private sector, civil society and government agencies are to be forged for sustainable development. 17 Inclusive approach: The policy stresses inclusive approaches that provide information access and involvement of all concerned citizens, communities and groups in environmental planning and governance. 18n summary, the Environmental Policy of 2006 established a comprehensive framework cantered on mainstreaming environmental priorities in the development planning and governance.It outlined institutional, regulatory and participatory mechanisms to achieve key objectives of sustainable development, enhanced oversight, precautionary approach, decentralized governance and inclusive environmental management.

POLICY EVALUATION FRAMEWORK
A robust policy evaluation framework is imperative for undertaking an objective, evidence-based analysis of the Environmental Policy, 2006.This section outlines the key parameters, integrated methodology and analytical approach employed in this research to assess the policy, along with reflection on their limitations.

A. Evaluation Criteria
The OECD Development Assistance Committee provides a widely utilized framework for assessing environmental policies across five core criteria: relevance, coherence, efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability.Accordingly, this research examines: • Relevance -Aligns policy objectives with domestic needs and global commitments on environmental sustainability.• Coherence -Consistency of policy provisions with the broader legal and regulatory framework.
• Efficiency -Adequacy of resource allocation, institutional coordination and implementation capacities.
• Effectiveness -Progress made towards stated environmental goals and outcomes.
• Sustainability -Resilience of positive outcomes over the long-term.Additionally, aspects of participation, inclusion and institutional learning are evaluated.

B. Integrated Methodology
The methodology involves extensive review of academic literature, government reports, civil society assessments and data analysis to evaluate the policy from multiple lenses.Key informant interviews with experts across sectors provide additional perspectives.Comparative case studies of peer country environmental policies inform analysis.

C. Analytical Approach
The policy's legal basis, implementation processes, outcomes, impact assessment mechanisms and sustainability provisions are scrutinized in relation to the evaluation criteria above.Quantitative and qualitative evidence derived from the integrated methodology facilitates an objective assessment.The strengths are the multi-dimensional criteria, evidence-based approach and real-world grounding.Limitations include subjective interpretations, inability to isolate causal impacts, and reliance on secondary over primary data.Efforts made to acknowledge biases and inconsistencies aim to bolster analytical rigor.In summary, the policy evaluation framework provides a robust basis to assess the Environmental Policy, 2006 across parameters identified in literature as most relevant.Despite limitations, it enables an objective, constructive analysis to inform evidence-based recommendations.

LEGAL ANALYSIS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, 2006
A robust legal foundation and consistency with the broader regulatory framework are imperative for the effectiveness of any public policy.This section analyses the legal basis of the Environmental Policy, 2006 and its coherence with domestic laws and global commitments.The soundness of the legal provisions is also evaluated.

A. Legal Basis
The Environmental Policy, 2006 derives its authority from Article 48A of the Indian Constitution which underscores the State's duty to protect the environment and safeguard forests and wildlife. 19The policy also operationalizes the right to healthy environment under Article 21 interpreted by courts. 20As a statutory mandate, the Environment Protection Act, 1986 empowers the Central Government to take necessary measures for environmental protection. 21The 2006 policy fulfils this enabling requirement.

B. Compatibility with Domestic Laws
The policy provisions are aligned with key domestic environmental laws like the Water Act, 1974, Air Act 1981, Forest Conservation Act, 1980 and others which it aims to strengthen through coordinated implementation. 22No direct conflicts or inconsistencies with existing legal-institutional regimes are evident.

C. Global Commitments
The policy is compatible with India's international commitments under multilateral environmental agreements including the Stockholm Declaration, Rio Declaration, and UNFCCC among others.However, enforceability could be strengthened through greater specificity and operational clarity in provisions.Focused implementation plans can inject greater legal authority.

POLICY IMPLEMENTATION AND EFFECTIVENESS
Effective policy implementation is key to translating provisions into tangible sustainability outcomes.This section examines the implementation mechanisms under the Environmental Policy, 2006, analyses its efficacy in achieving objectives, and highlights key challenges.

A. Implementation Mechanisms
The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change serves as the nodal agency for implementation. 25Sectoral ministries are required to establish environmental cells and dedicated officers for integration into policies, plans and programs. 26State Departments of Environment and Pollution Control Boards lead implementation at sub-national levels.Decentralization to local authorities is envisioned for bottom-up governance. 27Independent regulatory institutions like the National Green Tribunal provide critical oversight and enforcement functions. 28Multi-stakeholder partnerships involving communities, civil society and the private sector aim to ensure participatory implementation.

B. Efficacy in Achieving Objectives
While the policy's goals are progressive, the implementation record has been sub-optimal.Mainstreaming of environmental priorities across sectors remains slow with uneven compliance. 29 constraints through administrative reforms, capacity building, transparency and participatory approaches is vital.Robust implementation is crucial for policy effectiveness.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY CONSIDERATIONS
Impact assessment and integration of sustainability considerations are vital for environmental policies.This section analyses the Environmental Policy, 2006's provisions on these aspects and examines their adequacy and efficacy in practice.

A. Environmental Impact Assessment Provisions
The Policy mandates environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for all new developmental projects to assess and mitigate risks.It outlines a two-stage EIA process -screening and detailed assessment studies. 31Independent expert committees are to review EIA reports before clearance.However, deficiencies persist regarding poor quality assessments, lack of post-approval monitoring, and limited public consultations. 32Discretionary exemptions and non-compliance further undermine EIA effectiveness.

B. Integration of Sustainability Considerations
The Policy articulates sustainability objectives and principles including inter-generational equity, precautionary approach, polluter pays principle and integration of environmental costs in economic decisions.But critics argue the sustainability focus remains secondary to conventional development priorities in practice.Green accounting, eco-budgeting and sustainability impact assessments are yet to be mainstreamed.

C. Role in Promoting Sustainable Development
While the Policy references sustainable development, the lack of specific sustainability targets, indicators and implementation plans constrains tangible progress.Ambitious principles must be matched by actionable roadmaps, measurable goals and robust monitoring.

STAKEHOLDER PARTICIPATION AND PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Participation, transparency and inclusion are vital for effective and equitable environmental governance.This section examines the provisions for stakeholder engagement in the Environmental Policy, 2006, analysing their efficacy and inclusiveness in practice.

A. Policy Provisions
The Policy articulates an inclusive, participatory and transparent approach to environmental decisionmaking and implementation.It mandates public consultations in framing regulations and increased access to environmental information.Decentralized governance and community participation in natural resource management is envisaged.Partnerships with civil society, academia and media aim to leverage stakeholder expertise and networks.

B. Effectiveness in Practice
While these provisions signal a step forward, substantial gaps remain in meaningful participation.EIA public hearings suffer from procedural deficiencies and lack robust engagement. 33 marginalized communities particularly excluded from decision-making.Critical recommendations by civil society groups often go unaddressed.Overall, the policy's participatory aims are yet to be translated into inclusive, transparent and accountable environmental governance.Considerable progress is needed on the ground.

C. Inclusion and Representation
The lack of specific guidelines, capacity building measures, and grievance redressal mechanisms constrain inclusion of marginalized groups like women, poorer communities and indigenous people.Representation in regulatory institutions and participatory processes remains inadequate.

COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT MECHANISMS
Robust compliance and enforcement mechanisms are crucial for ensuring implementation and efficacy of environmental policies.This section analyses the provisions under the Environmental Policy, 2006, examines their effectiveness and highlights key challenges.

A. Compliance and Enforcement Provisions
The

IX. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS AND BEST PRACTICES
Comparative analysis of peer country policies provides useful insights to strengthen India's environmental policy framework.This section examines relevant examples and their relevance.

A. Comparative Policy Analysis
The UK's environmental policy framework mandates regular critical reviews to ensure evolution based on evaluation findings. 35Sustainability principles guide the actions of all government departments. 36The

C. Emerging Challenges and Priorities
Emerging priorities include tackling pollution, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and a green transition.Policy evolution must respond to these realities along with global best practices on circular economy, net-zero frameworks, eco-taxes, life-cycle analysis, environmental risk disclosure and participatory governance.

CONCLUSION
This research undertook a comprehensive, evidence-based analysis of India's Environmental Policy enacted in 2006 to highlight achievements, examine limitations and identify specific opportunities for strengthening the policy framework.The 2006 Environmental Policy marked a milestone by establishing an overarching, multi-sectoral strategy for environmental regulation in India.The policy's extensive provisions for mainstreaming ecological considerations across governance, bolstering implementation and compliance systems, prioritizing sustainable development, and adopting inclusive, transparent approaches were laudable.However, the preceding analysis reveals considerable gaps between intention and outcomes.The policy's implementation record has been sub-optimal due to limitations in institutional capacities, monitoring systems, inter-agency coordination and political commitment.As a result, translation of the policy's sustainability objectives into tangible impacts remains slow and uneven across sectors and regions.
Key criticisms include lack of operational details and time-bound targets, inadequate penalties for violations, discretionary exemptions in impact assessments, insufficient decentralization of governance, and minimal sustainability orientation in planning and budgets.Persisting environmental degradation underscores the need for more concerted efforts to strengthen the policy framework based on robust evidence.At the same time, the policy's progressive orientation has influenced India's environmental governance trajectory over the past decade.The National Green Tribunal and other landmark legislations owe their genesis to the 2006 policy.It also catalysed action on climate change while reaffirming India's commitment to global environmental accords.
The analysis identified priority areas for reform such as increased investment, stronger institutions, improved monitoring, enhanced participation and greater sustainability focus.Adopting global best practices regarding target setting, green accounting, monitoring coordination, compliance enforcement and local capacity building can inject new vigor into India's environmental regulatory regime.India's size, diversity and development challenges undoubtedly constrain reform.However, the costs of continued environmental damage also motivate urgent action.Constructive critique aims to inform public discourse and policy decisions to effectively balance ecological sustainability alongside economic progress and social equity under an evidence-based framework.The 2006 Environmental Policy provided the compass.
Realizing its vision now requires augmenting capacities, incentives, cooperation and knowledge across society -government, businesses, communities and individuals -to secure India's environment for posterity.
23 D. Coherence, Clarity and Enforceability The policy's objectives are coherent with the sustainable development goals outlined in the Five-Year Plans.The decentralized governance mechanisms resonate with Constitutional provisions on devolution of powers. 24While broad in scope, the provisions lack specificity in terms of enforceable targets and implementation plans.Clearer norms, standards and timelines would strengthen legal enforceability.In summary, the Environmental Policy, 2006 has a robust Constitutional and statutory basis.It aligns with domestic environmental jurisprudence and global commitments.The policy's overarching objectives resonate with the broader legal-institutional landscape related to environment and development in India.
This research aims to conduct an in-depth critical analysis of India's 2006 Environmental Policy.The key research questions are: 1.How effective is the legal and institutional framework established under the Environmental Policy, 2006?Does it provide a robust basis for mainstreaming environmental protection across sectors? 2. To what extent has the policy been successfully implemented, measured against its own goals and objectives?What are the gaps, challenges and outcomes?3. How adequate are the provisions and mechanisms instituted by the policy regarding impact assessments, sustainability considerations, stakeholder engagement, compliance and enforcement?What are their strengths and weaknesses? 4. What have been the impacts of the policy on India's environmental sustainability and sustainable development?Has it positively influenced environmental decision-making and governance? 5. How does the Environmental Policy, 2006 compare to best practices internationally?What lessons can Resource constraints, overlapping mandates and coordination gaps persist amongst implementing agencies.Trends in key environmental indicators exhibit mixed results.Concerted efforts to bridge implementation gaps are essential to effectively translate policy objectives into sustainable outcomes.

. Key Challenges and Improvements Challenges
Policy mandates strengthened monitoring, compliance and penal provisions for violations.It envisages specific environmental courts and enhancement of existing monetary and criminal penalties.Central and state pollution control boards, state environment departments, and local authorities share the compliance burden.34TheNationalGreenTribunal Act, 2010 established specialized environmental courts for enforcement.B.Assessment of EffectivenessDespite these provisions, substantial gaps persist in compliance and enforcement leading to continued environmental damage.Monitoring capacities remain weak with regulators overly reliant on selfreporting.Penalties are inadequate deterrents and seldom fully applied.Lack of political will, corruption, capacity constraints and jurisdictional overlaps undermine enforcement efficiency.Significant strengthening of the compliance architecture is essential.Cinclude understaffing, poor coordination, monitoring deficiencies, discretionary exemptions and external interference.Recommended reforms include greater transparency, community oversight, leveraging technology, specialized training, stringent penalties and curbing regulatory capture.In summary, while the Environmental Policy, 2006 recognized the centrality of compliance, considerable gaps remain in effective enforcement.Concerted efforts are vital to build capacities, enhance coordination, apply deterrent penalties and insulate enforcement from external pressures.
34Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.35UKGovernment(2021).Environmental reporting guidelines: including streamlined energy and carbon reporting guidance.36UKOfficeforEnvironmentalProtection(2021).The UK's environmental principles and governance after exit from the European Union.frameworkprioritizeslong-termtargetsetting,greenbudgeting and natural capital accounting.37TheEU'sSharedEnvironmentalInformationSystem enables coordinated monitoring and enforcement across agencies, promoting compliance.38Regionalcapacitybuildingaims to enhance localization.39Chinaassigns eco-targets to officials combined with rigorous appraisal to align incentives with environmental performance. 40B. Relevance for India This comparative analysis highlights the utility of regular policy reviews, sustainability mainstreaming, coordinated monitoring, decentralization, stringent enforcement and incentive alignment.India should institute mandatory periodic evaluations, integrate quantifiable sustainability metrics in planning and budgets, strengthen inter-agency coordination, build state/local capacities, and link targets to accountability.
C. Best Practice TakeawaysAdditional best practices include extended producer responsibility, green public procurement, environmental education, eco-labelling schemes and leveraging technology.Mainstreaming sustainability assessments, natural resource accounting, environmental risk disclosure and participatory processes can further strengthen India's policy.POLICY REFORM AND FUTURE DIRECTIONSBased on the extensive analysis undertaken, this section identifies areas for reform, provides evidencebased recommendations to strengthen the Environmental Policy, 2006, and examines emerging challenges and priorities to inform future policy evolution.37UKEnvironmentAct,2021.38TheEU Shared Environmental Information System (SEIS).39Scheuer, S. (2005).EU Environmental Policy Handbook.European Environmental Bureau. 40Zheng, H. et al (2010).Incentives for China's urban mayors to mitigate pollution externalities: The role of the central government and public environmentalism.