India Generates Over 14 Lakh Tonnes of E-Waste in 2025–26, Nearly 10 Lakh Tonnes Recycled
E-waste Recycling | 2026-03-10 03:11:54
The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022 provide the methodology for national-level assessment based on the life cycle of 106 notified electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): India has generated over 14 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of electronic waste (e-waste) during 2025–26, with 9.79 lakh MT recycled so far, the government informed the Lok Sabha on Monday. The information was shared by Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh in a written reply.
Citing Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the minister stated that 14,14,645 MT of e-waste has been generated across the country this year, of which 9,79,080 MT has been recycled. The figures show a continuing upward trend in e-waste generation: in 2024–25, 13.97 lakh MT was generated with 11.59 lakh MT recycled, while 2023–24 saw 12.54 lakh MT generated and 7.78 lakh MT recycled.
The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022 provide the methodology for national-level assessment based on the life cycle of 106 notified electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The rules also mandate verification and audit mechanisms by the CPCB or designated agencies, including random inspections and periodic audits, to ensure compliance.
The framework strengthens extended producer responsibility (EPR), requires mandatory registration of manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, and recyclers, and aims to integrate the informal sector into formal recycling, improving the environmentally sound handling and recycling of e-waste nationwide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How much e-waste did India generate in 2025–26?
India generated 14,14,645 metric tonnes of electronic waste during the 2025–26 period.
- Which regulation governs e-waste management in India?
The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022 outlines national assessment methods and compliance mechanisms.
- What key policy mechanism does the rule emphasize?
It emphasizes Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), requiring producers to manage the recycling and disposal of electronic products.
