EnvironmentThursday, 1 October 2026·The Hindu - Environment
Supreme Court’s limited relaxation for Gen-2 joined green crackers: NEERI norms, PM10/PM2.5 cuts and Diwali time window
On 30 September 2026, the Supreme Court allowed a limited, conditional relaxation for Gen-2 joined green crackers based on CSIR-NEERI norms.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On September 30, 2026, the Supreme Court allowed a limited and conditional relaxation for CSIR-NEERI’s Gen-2 joined green crackers, while saying it would not permit 24-hour bursting and would consider fixed time windows for Diwali.
Key specifics
- CSIR-NEERI said Gen-2 formulations can reduce pollution by 45%-60% for PM10 and PM2.5, compared with earlier green crackers’ 30% cut in particulate matter.
- The Court’s relaxation applies only to the “joined” cracker, a string of crackers burst in sequence, and not to unrestricted bursting.
- Noise norms mentioned in the report are 125 dB(AI)/145 dB(C) peak, with barium-based ingredients restricted.
- Only manufacturers licensed by PESO, the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation, can register with NEERI for these crackers.
- NEERI is modelling barium dispersion in Bhopal, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai, with results due by October 15, 2026.
Exam lens
Environment and science-based MCQ: Supreme Court, CSIR-NEERI, Gen-2 joined crackers, PM10/PM2.5, PESO, October 15, 2026 — ask which body set the conditions and what pollution metrics were cited.