Scheme of Assistance for Common Environment Infrastructure: Scheme of Assistance for Strengthening the Regulation and Environmental Compliance

Description
The scheme "Scheme of Assistance for Common Environment Infrastructure" is an umbrella scheme launched by the Industries and Mines Department, Gujarat under the Gujarat Industrial Policy. Effective from August 7th, 2020 to August 6th, 2025, it aims to boost industrial growth through financial assistance, modern technologies, and enhanced facilities for industrial parks and clusters. The component “Financial Assistance for Common Environmental Infrastructure Facilities” aims to support industries and organizations in establishing and upgrading environmental management infrastructure. It provides financial aid for projects that promote pollution control, waste management, and environmental sustainability.

Exclusions
• The Project availing incentives under this scheme will not be entitled to avail incentives under any other scheme of the State Government for the same component, unless specified otherwise. However, the project will be eligible to avail incentives available under schemes of Government of India or any other institutions.

Definitions
Eligible Activities
1. Scientific Research & Pilot Projects:
Support for scientific reports and pilot projects on cleaner production and technology.
Conducted through institutions such as IITs, NITs, Science & Engineering Colleges, and recognized R&D institutions.
Involves organizations like GPCB, GEMI, and GCPC.
2. Environmental Monitoring Infrastructure:
Installation of testing infrastructure to monitor ambient environmental quality.
Real-time and online monitoring systems for continuous data availability.
Data to be shared with GPCB, GEMI, GCPC, and recognized science and engineering colleges.
3. Pollution Source Inventory & Remediation Programs:
Identification and mitigation of pollution sources in rivers and vulnerable areas.
Environmental impact assessments for industrial zones, districts, and estates.
Air quality monitoring, emission inventory, and source apportionment studies for affected areas.
Conducted through IITs, NITs, scientific R&D institutions, and recognized Science & Engineering Colleges.
4. Capacity-Building Workshops & Seminars:
Organized by GPCB, GEMI, and GCPC to promote:
Environmental compliance and enforcement.
Industrial pollution prevention, control, and remediation.
Knowledge-sharing on best practices in environmental sustainability.
5. Environment Clinics:
Establishment of environment clinics to create a common platform for industries, associations, and environmental experts.
Aims to provide expert advice and cost-effective solutions to real-time environmental challenges.
To be executed by GPCB with the help of scientific and R&D institutions, GEMI, GCPC, and recognized science and engineering colleges.
6. Training & Skill Development Programs:
Assistance for establishing training centers or conducting training programs.
Skill development for instructors, operators, and industry managers in environmental management.
Conducted by the Environment and Forest Department, GPCB, GEMI, and GCPC, in collaboration with industry associations.
7. Other Approved Activities:
Any additional activities related to environmental regulation and compliance as approved by the State Level Empowered Committee (SLEC).

Benefits
• **Quantum of Assistance:** Need based support, maximum ₹50,00,000/-, will be provided as may be decided by the State Level Empowered Committee.

Eligibility Criteria
1. - Industries association / Any Enterprise (except for captive use) or firm which is registered under Societies Act, Trust Act or under the Companies Act.; or GIDC/Board/ Corporations / Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) / PSU / Municipal Corporation / Nagarpalika / Urban Development Authority etc.
2. - The project must comply with Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF) & Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) [regulations](https://gpcb.gujarat.gov.in/ViewFile?fileName=%E2%9C%BF84VtA%E2%9C%A45Y2S5am0gZge7C5DIhraFNMo2Ft55An9ZyFCK3Aq9K4dpmnxwVOuBnFXqslsR%E2%9C%A4PycTDCIhX4VZROM%E2%9C%BFi06yKqnt6WggtDpEP%E2%9C%A49qS%E2%9C%A4OqhmJOM%E2%9C%A4HY9NwlZsBW6x0te88%E2%9C%BF%E2%9C%BF0jyrttC7nRRU7AbQ%E2%99%AC%E2%99%AC). - The project must remain operational for a minimum of 5 years post-completion.

Required Documents
• Copy of legal status of applicant such as memorandum and article of association and company registration certificate or registration under society act or trust act, and list of directors/members with addresses.
• Proof that land for project is in possession, like land allotment letter of GIDC with copies of 7/12 utaara, N.A. permission, approved plan, and construction permission by competent authority.
• Copy of GPCB NOC/CCA for establishing project (if not applicable, then give justification on letterhead).
• Copy of Environment Clearance (if not applicable, then give justification on letterhead).
• Detailed project report covering all details mentioned in application form.
• List of beneficiaries in format as per Annexure-A1 for each beneficiary on letterhead.
• Process diagram of proposed project signed by authorized signatory.
• Financial and technical appraisal of project from Bank/FI/other institution as approved by SLEC.
• Copy of any other financial assistance granted by GoG and/or GoI for the same component or project.
• Copy of sanction/consent letter from Financial Institution, if loan is sanctioned.
• Affidavits for outstanding government dues and any pending court case against Govt.
• Declaration/resolution as per application.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the objective of the "Scheme of Assistance for Common Environment Infrastructure"?
A: The scheme "Scheme of Assistance for Common Environment Infrastructure" under the Gujarat Industrial Policy aims to provide incentives for environmental compliance to ensure long-term economic and ecological balance.

Q: What is the objective of the "Scheme of Assistance for Strengthening the Regulation and Environmental Compliance" component?
A: The component aims to support environmental sustainability by funding scientific research, pollution control initiatives, environmental monitoring, and capacity-building programs.

Q: Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
A: Industries, industrial associations, government agencies, public sector undertakings (PSUs), and other eligible institutions involved in environmental management can apply for assistance.

Q: What types of projects are supported under this scheme?
A: Scientific report/ Pilot projects on cleaner production and technology through institutions such as IITs, NITs, Science & Engineering Colleges of the State, Scientific and R & D institutions and GPCB/GEMI/GCPC are supported under this scheme.

Q: What is the maximum financial assistance provided under this scheme?
A: The scheme provides need-based financial assistance of up to [?]50,00,000/- per project, subject to approval by the State Level Empowered Committee (SLEC).

Q: What kind of research projects can receive funding?
A: The scheme funds research projects focused on cleaner production technologies, environmental impact assessment, pollution control methods, and real-time environmental monitoring systems.

Q: What are environment clinics under this scheme?
A: Environment clinics serve as platforms where industry representatives, environmental professionals, and experts collaborate to find cost-effective solutions to environmental challenges in real time.

Q: Can multiple institutions collaborate on a single project?
A: Yes, the scheme encourages collaboration between multiple institutions, including IITs, NITs, R&D organizations, and government bodies, to enhance the effectiveness of environmental projects.

Q: What is the role of the State Level Empowered Committee (SLEC)?
A: SLEC is responsible for reviewing project proposals, approving financial assistance, and ensuring that the projects align with environmental compliance goals.

Q: Are training and skill development programs eligible for funding?
A: Yes, the scheme provides financial assistance for establishing training centers and conducting skill development programs for industry professionals, instructors, and operators.