State Hydropower Policies

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has formulated comprehensive hydropower policies to provide a clear regulatory framework for hydropower sector development.

Hydropower Policy 2007

The original Hydropower Policy established the foundation for modern hydropower development in Arunachal Pradesh.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive framework for hydropower project development
• Regulations for project identification and concession granting
• Environmental and social compliance standards
• Financial incentives and viability support mechanisms
• Community benefit and local area development provisions
• Dispute resolution mechanisms

Scope: Applies to all hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh

Document: Download Hydropower Policy 2007 (PDF)

Hydropower Policy 2008 and Amendment 2017

The 2008 policy provided updated provisions with technical refinements and modern practices. Subsequently, the 2017 amendment incorporated lessons learned and technological advancements.

Key Amendments (2017):

• Updated technical specifications and standards
• Modern environmental management practices
• Improved transparency in project allocation
• Enhanced community participation mechanisms
• Adoption of international best practices
• Climate change adaptation considerations

Applicability: Projects approved post-2008

Document: Download Hydropower Policy 2008 Amendment 2017 (PDF)

Policy Coverage

Project Identification and Allocation

Both policies establish procedures for:

• Identification of viable hydropower projects
• Technical feasibility assessment
• Financial viability analysis
• Concession agreement and bidding process
• Developer selection and award

Environmental Protection

Comprehensive environmental provisions include:

• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements
• Forest clearance procedures
• Biodiversity protection measures
• Water quality management standards
• Ecosystem preservation protocols

Social Responsibility

Social provisions encompass:

• Community consent and participation
• Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) policies
• Local Area Development Fund (LADF) allocation and management
• Skill development and employment generation
• Social Impact Assessment (SIA)

Monitoring and Compliance

Robust monitoring frameworks include:

• State Level Monitoring Committee (SLMC) oversight
• Regular project performance monitoring
• Environmental compliance verification
• Social benefit delivery tracking
• Annual performance reporting

Policy Administration

Implementation Authority: Department of Hydropower Development

Approval Body: Government of Arunachal Pradesh, Cabinet

Review Frequency: Periodic review every 5-10 years to incorporate technological and regulatory changes

Policy Objectives

1. Energy Security: Contribute to India's renewable energy goals through sustainable hydropower development

2. Economic Development: Generate revenue and employment through hydropower sector growth

3. Infrastructure Development: Support road, transmission, and communication infrastructure

4. Community Welfare: Ensure local communities benefit through LADF and employment

5. Environmental Protection: Maintain ecosystem integrity and biodiversity

6. Transparency: Establish clear, transparent procedures for all transactions

Policy Evolution

The policies have evolved to address:

• Technological advancements in hydropower generation
• Environmental management best practices
• Community engagement methodologies
• Climate change considerations
• International standards and conventions
• Lessons from project implementation

Key Policy Principles

Sustainability: Balancing economic, environmental, and social objectives

Transparency: Open and fair processes for project allocation and implementation

Accountability: Clear responsibility assignment and performance monitoring

Community Focus: Prioritizing local community welfare and participation

Technical Excellence: Maintaining high standards in project design and execution

Environmental Care: Stringent environmental protection and compliance requirements

Contact Information

For policy-related inquiries:

Commissioner, DHPD Email: commrdhpd.arn@gmail.com Phone: 8731931119 (PIO)

Civil Secretariat, Itanagar - 791111

Related Resources

• Hydropower Policy Details
• Legal Framework
• Schemes Overview
• Project Portfolio