Ministry : UNIQUE IDENTIFICATION AUTHORITY OF INDIA (Not Applicable)

Part III-Section 4

Subject : Extra Ordinary

Overview [Gazette of India: Extraordinary, Part II—Section 3(ii)]

The Gazette publishes two key notifications: (1) the constitution of the Puducherry Coastal Zone Management Authority for three years, and (2) amendments to coastal regulation rules under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, effective July 2025.

Key Points

• Constitution of Puducherry Coastal Zone Management Authority with seven members, including ex-officio and expert members.
• Authority headquartered in Puducherry, with a three-member quorum requirement.
• Authority to examine project proposals, regulate developmental activities, and enforce Coastal Regulation Zone provisions.
• Mandatory recusal of members from projects where they provided consultancy to avoid conflicts of interest.
• Authority to issue directions, file complaints, inquire into violations, and monitor implementation.
• Requirement to maintain a dedicated website for transparency and submit bi-annual activity reports to the Central Government.

Summary [Gazette of India: Extraordinary, Part II—Section 3(ii)]

The gazette establishes the Puducherry Coastal Zone Management Authority and defines its mandate to regulate coastal activities, enforce environmental protections, and ensure transparency in decision-making. These measures aim to strengthen coastal zone management and compliance with the Environment (Protection) Act, with implications for project approvals, environmental oversight, and governance in Puducherry.