Social Impact Assessment (SIA) was prepared by the Atlas Management Consultancy Services (AMCS) Private Limited.

• Area of 130 ha falling within tribal reserves will be diverted for the Great Nicobar Trunk Infrastructure Road project.

About Social Impact Assessment

• It is a process of research, planning and the management of social change or consequences arising from policies, plans, developments and projects (UNEP, 2007).
• According to the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (RFCTLARR) Act, 2013 conducting a SIA and preparing a Social Impact Management Plan is mandatory for land acquisition.
  • This applies to government use, public-private partnerships, or private acquisition for public purposes.

Issue of tribal displacement and rehabilitation due to development

• Displacement: Developmental projects often target mineral- and forest-rich areas that are predominantly inhabited by indigenous populations. Example- Sardar Sarovar Dam project, Ken Betwa River Linkage.
  • Impact of Displacement: loss of livelihood, cultural erosion, psychological distress and social disintegration.
• Rehabilitation: Tribals are provided rehabilitation through policies such as RFCTLARR Act 2013.
  • Challenges in Rehabilitation: insufficient compensation, lack of community participation, bureaucratic hurdles and corruption.