Prior environmental clearance for wood based projects must be obtained before seeking government approvals, including foreign collaboration. Prior environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment & Forests is mandatory before applying for Government approvals for wood based projects; applicants must enclose the Ministry's in principle clearance. Delicensing of many wood products remains subject to locational conditions and policy directions, while wood items reserved for the small scale sector set up in the organised sector or involving locational angles still require compulsory licensing under the Industries(Development & Regulation) Act. Approvals for 100% EOUs, foreign collaboration and project import certification are considered in consultation with the Ministry.