With reference to green cracker relaxations in India, consider the following statements: 1. The crackers must contain no banned chemicals to qualify for relaxations. 2. Green crackers must meet a peak noise limit of 125 dB(AI) and 145 dB(C). 3. Tests showed a 50% reduction in emissions and 20% reduction in particulate matter. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Supreme Court accepts CSIR-NEERI suggestions for limited green cracker relaxations

GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biotechnology & health research· Prelims + Mains· 30 September 2026

Environmental compliance vs cultural rights: a GS3 Science & Technology and Ethics case study.

Why in news

The Supreme Court accepted CSIR-NEERI suggestions to allow limited green cracker relaxations provided they meet specific noise and chemical safety standards.

Background

The Supreme Court, led by Justice M.M. Sundresh, reviewed suggestions from CSIR-NEERI regarding green crackers. The proposed relaxations require crackers to meet 125 dB(AI)/145 dB(C) peak noise limits and contain no banned chemicals.

Facts for Prelims

FactGreen crackers must meet 125 dB(AI) and 145 dB(C) peak noise limits.
FactTests showed a 30% reduction in emissions and 45%-60% reduction in particulate matter.
FactBarium tests by CPCB and Union government are scheduled to continue until October 15.

Prelims practice question

With reference to green cracker relaxations in India, consider the following statements:

The crackers must contain no banned chemicals to qualify for relaxations.
Green crackers must meet a peak noise limit of 125 dB(AI) and 145 dB(C).
Tests showed a 50% reduction in emissions and 20% reduction in particulate matter.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a)3 only
(b)1 and 2 only
(c)1 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3

Show answer

Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: Tests showed a 30% reduction in emissions and 45%-60% reduction in particulate matter.

For Mains

Q. Discuss the balance between cultural traditions and environmental protection in the context of regulating firecracker emissions in India.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

Regulatory oversight: Balancing noise pollution limits with public demand for cultural festivities
Scientific validation: Necessity of standardized particulate matter reduction metrics for environmental compliance

Keywords: Environmental Compliance · Pollution Mitigation · Regulatory Framework · Public Health · Sustainable Development

Read the full news →Report a mistake in this note Source: The Hindu ↗Also: GS3 · Pollution (air, water, plastic)

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