Green Crackers Allowed in Delhi-NCR for Deepavali 2025
Why in the news
The Supreme Court has eased the year-long ban on fireworks in Delhi-NCR, permitting the sale and use of approved green crackers during Deepavali 2025.
Key facts
- The relaxation covers only approved green crackers in the Delhi-NCR region.
- Certification is needed from NEERI and PESO.
- The court described the step as a test case, noting that absolute bans encouraged smuggling and the use of harmful fireworks.
- Emission norm: at least 30% lower particulate matter, or 20% lower PM together with 10% lower gaseous emissions (SO2 and NO2), compared with conventional crackers.
About green crackers
- Developed by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), a CSIR laboratory.
- They must be approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
- They cannot contain mercury, arsenic or barium; one route lowers barium nitrate, another replaces it with potassium nitrate.
- A green logo and a QR code distinguish them from conventional crackers and help prevent counterfeits.
- Varieties include sparklers, flowerpots and maroons.
Exam angle
- Remember NEERI under CSIR as the developer of green crackers.
- PESO is the approval authority; the logo and QR code are identification tools.
- Environmental court orders on air pollution in Delhi-NCR are regular topics.