MHA sets security clearance framework for renewable projects near borders
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has introduced a national security clearance framework for solar, wind and hybrid power projects proposed in sensitive areas along the International Border. The framework establishes a defined process for obtaining security clearances and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) as applications for renewable energy projects in border locations increase.
The guidelines cover projects proposed near the Line of Control (LoC), Line of Actual Control (LAC) and International Border. The framework is intended to address national security requirements while supporting the government’s ease-of-doing-business objectives.
Sensitive areas
The MHA has classified areas within 50 kilometres (km) of the LoC, LAC or International Border as Sensitive Areas. This includes the LoC and LAC, along with areas within 20 km of the International Border, where a separate NOC from the Ministry of Defence will be required.
Areas within 1 km of the LoC, LAC or International Border have been designated as Restricted Areas.
Projects along the LoC or LAC that had already received security clearance from the MHA before the guidelines were issued will not be required to seek clearance again. The exemption also applies to applicants that have already obtained an NOC from the Ministry of Defence for their projects.
Clearance process
The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) applies to all solar, wind and hybrid power projects proposed near the LoC, LAC or International Border. Projects within 50 km will require security clearance from the MHA, while areas within 1 km will remain restricted.
For projects proposed between 1 km and 50 km, and between 1 km and 20 km, security clearance will be assessed by the MHA and Ministry of Defence on a case-to-case basis for granting an NOC.
Applications for all solar, wind and hybrid energy projects covered by the framework will be submitted only to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). MNRE will ensure that land is allocated in a manner that prevents project construction from extending over a long distance parallel to the International Border.
Projects involving foreign investment will also require a separate application to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Foreign Direct Investment Policy (FDI Policy) of the Government of India.
MNRE will communicate the final decision to the project proponent after obtaining security clearance from the MHA and an NOC from the Ministry of Defence. As far as possible, the MHA will dispose of proposals received within 60 days.
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