UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Impact prediction is the stage of EIA where analysts estimate the type,extent and significance of environmental changes likely to result from a proposed project. It uses baseline data,models and expert judgement to forecast impacts. These predictions guide the development of mitigation measures and inform decision makers. Therefore the description in the question clearly refers to impact prediction.

Option A:
Screening is the initial step to decide whether a project requires a full EIA or not. It does not involve detailed estimation of environmental changes. Hence it does not match the stage described in the stem.

Option B:
Scoping identifies the key issues,impacts and alternatives that need detailed study in the EIA. It determines the boundaries and focus of the assessment. While important,it precedes the actual quantification and evaluation of impacts.

Option C:
Public hearing is a participatory step where affected communities and stakeholders express their views on the proposed project and its impacts. It provides qualitative input but is not the technical phase of estimating magnitude and significance. Therefore it is not the correct answer.

Option D:
Impact prediction produces scenarios of how air,water,soil,flora,fauna and socio economic conditions may change if a project proceeds. These results are essential for deciding whether to approve,modify or reject the project. This aligns exactly with the description given in the question.