Supreme Court’s Recent Decision
Supreme Court Permits Limited Use of Green Crackers in Delhi NCR: The Supreme Court of India has temporarily allowed the limited use of green crackers in the Delhi–NCR region. This relaxation slightly eases the existing blanket ban, which was imposed to curb pollution during festive seasons. The order emphasises strict adherence to the guidelines laid down by environmental authorities.
Key Guidelines for Implementation
As per the Court’s direction, only NEERI-approved green crackers are permitted for sale. Their use is confined to specific days and time slots decided by local authorities. Crackers containing banned chemicals such as barium nitrate remain strictly prohibited. Furthermore, online sale of firecrackers through e-commerce platforms is not allowed.
Static GK fact: The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), under CSIR, developed the formulation for green crackers in 2018.
Environmental Monitoring by CPCB
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) will closely monitor air quality during this relaxation period. The collected data will be used to evaluate the environmental impact of green crackers and guide future policies. This step aligns with India’s broader effort to implement evidence-based environmental governance.
Static GK Tip: The CPCB was established in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Balancing Tradition and Public Health
The Court highlighted the importance of striking a balance between cultural celebrations and public health. By allowing green crackers, it acknowledged the festive spirit while ensuring minimal damage to air quality. The decision reflects judicial recognition of citizens’ right to celebrate in an environmentally responsible way.
What Makes Green Crackers Different
Green crackers are formulated to reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions by around 30% compared to traditional fireworks. They do not contain harmful substances such as arsenic, lithium, or mercury. Although not entirely pollution-free, they represent a step toward sustainable celebration practices.
Static GK fact: The concept of green crackers was legally recognised after the Arjun Gopal vs Union of India (2018) judgment, which led to a ban on conventional firecrackers and encouraged eco-friendly alternatives.
Significance of the Decision
This temporary permission acts as a pilot initiative for future policymaking. Depending on the air quality data collected, authorities may decide whether green crackers can be permitted on a wider scale. The move is also expected to promote awareness about cleaner technologies and responsible celebrations among citizens.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Supreme Court Permits Limited Use of Green Crackers in Delhi NCR:
| Topic | Detail |
| Supreme Court Decision | Allowed limited use of green crackers in Delhi-NCR |
| Implementing Body | Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) |
| Approved Crackers | NEERI-certified green crackers |
| Key Ban | Firecrackers with barium nitrate and online sales |
| Developer of Green Crackers | CSIR–NEERI |
| Year of Development | 2018 |
| Related Case | Arjun Gopal vs Union of India (2018) |
| Ministry Involved | Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change |
| Monitoring Parameter | Air Quality Index (AQI) |
| Policy Goal | Balance between tradition and environmental safety |
