Before publishing research reports on sensitive areas like security, multilateral lending agencies such as World Bank and ADB will have to get concurrence of the government. Further, official clearance is required for studies where survey, primary data collection or field research in the country is involved.
The Finance Ministry in a circular said multilateral development banks (MDBs) require formal clearance from the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) for studies involving sensitive areas such as inter Country Rivers, border areas and issues related with internal and external security. The final report would be published only with the concurrence or comments of the DEA.
The circular has been issued as there was no standard practice to deal with studies related to sensitive cases. On the other hand, if there is no primary data collection and the agency uses the data which is already in the public domain in case of sensitive areas, would not require specific clearance from DEA.
Further, for regional studies involving neighbouring countries, the DEA will seek comments from the Ministry of External Affairs for the political angle and if the study relates to security, comments of Ministry of Home Affairs will also be sought.
