The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on March 25, 2026, notified regarding the Extension of the timeline for connectivity to the New OCEMS Portal of CPCB, in compliance with directions dated March 11, 2026, and March 16, 2026, issued under Section 18(1Xb) of the Air (Prevention & control of pollution) Act, 1981.
The following has been stated:
• It clarifies that the apparent gap between e-waste generated and processed has been misinterpreted, as such differences may arise due to storage, reuse, or delayed processing rather than informal sector handling. The Board highlights that the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, have introduced a more transparent regulatory framework through an online Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) portal, mandatory registration of stakeholders, and stricter monitoring by State Pollution Control Boards.
• It emphasizes efforts to curb illegal recycling and ensure environmentally sound disposal, noting that improper handling of e-waste can lead to soil and groundwater contamination.
• The rules also prescribe phased recycling targets, increasing from around 60% in initial years to 80% in later years, supported by adequate authorized recycling infrastructure across the country.
• Overall, CPCB asserts that a robust system is in place to manage e-waste effectively while strengthening compliance and environmental safeguards.
[Notification no. – IT-11/10/2025-IT-HO-CPCB-HO]
