New Delhi, Oct.15,2025:Green Crackers verdict refers to the Supreme Court’s ruling that allows the bursting and sale of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for Diwali 2025, subject to strict conditions-
Previously, Delhi and NCR had effectively experienced bans on any firecracker usage, owing to concerns over worsening air quality. Under the new ruling, for the first time in years, limited celebration with green crackers has been permitted.
The verdict does not restore full freedom; rather, it imposes a temporary, experiment-based relaxation in a controlled environment.
Timeline & Key Mandates
Permitted Days and Hours
Under the Green Crackers verdict, the Supreme Court has allowed bursting of green crackers only on October 18 to October 21, 2025.
The only time windows allowed are-
- 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
- 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
These time windows are strictly enforced to minimize air quality impact.
QR Codes, Designated Sales & Traceability
To prevent illegal crackers from being sold, each green cracker must carry a QR code that can be verified against a public registry.
Sales will only be allowed at designated offline outlets, licensed by authorities based on NEERI / PESO approvals. Patrol teams will monitor these outlets and conduct random inspections of stock and authenticity.
If a vendor or manufacturer deals in non-compliant crackers, their license may be suspended immediately.
E-commerce Ban & Supply Chain Controls
The Supreme Court has prohibited online sales of firecrackers (even green ones) in NCR via platforms like Amazon or Flipkart.
Also, crackers imported from outside the NCR are banned for sale within NCR to prevent cross-border smuggling
Arguments & Rationale from the Court
Smuggling & Illicit Crackers
One of the key reasons the court advanced to justify this controlled relaxation is that conventional, unregulated firecrackers are often smuggled into NCR and sold illegally. Such illicit crackers may lack safety or emissions standards, thus causing more harm than certified green crackers.
The court opined that a complete ban might encourage a black market that undermines both air quality and governance.
Pollution & Constitutional Mandate
India’s Constitution under Article 21 guarantees the right to life, which courts have interpreted to include the right to a healthy environment. The bench reiterated that environmental protection cannot be compromised.
Yet, the court also recognized the cultural sentiment around Diwali and the livelihoods associated with the fireworks industry. Thus, it opted for a “balanced approach” rather than an outright prohibition.
Industry & Livelihood Concerns
The fireworks trade employs many people, including small manufacturers and local vendors. The court considered submissions from the industry and noted that an absolute ban would significantly affect livelihoods.
The bench believed that allowing green crackers temporarily would permit continued economic activity under regulated conditions.
Critical Reactions & Expert Views
Environmentalists’ Warnings
While green crackers emit lower emissions (claimed reductions of 30-35 %) compared to conventional crackers, experts caution that they still release ultrafine particles (PM1) and gases harmful to health.
Many environmental activists argue that relaxing bans—even for a few days—could jeopardize years of advocacy to improve Delhi’s air during winters.
They also demand strong enforcement to ensure only NEERI-approved crackers reach consumers, and strict penalties for violations.
Fireworks Industry Perspective
Manufacturers and fireworks associations have welcomed the Green Crackers verdict, as it offers breathing space for business after multiple years of strict bans.
They emphasize that they adhere to NEERI / PESO protocols and claim they are prepared to comply with the QR and licensing norms mandated by the court.
Public Sentiment
Among Delhi-NCR residents, opinions are mixed. Some grassroots voices rejoice that Diwali celebrations can resume in a limited way. Others remain skeptical, fearing more pollution and disregard for rules.
In densely populated areas, even during allowed slots, bursting crackers may aggravate breathing issues, especially for vulnerable populations (children, asthma patients).
Risks, Loopholes & Enforcement Challenges
Even the carefully drafted Green Crackers verdict has potential pitfalls-
- Counterfeit or fake “green” crackers may slip into markets disguised under QR labels.
- Monitoring dozens of designated outlets across NCR is a logistical challenge.
- Smuggling from adjacent districts remains a threat.
- Verifying QR codes in real time and responding to violations promptly will test enforcement machinery.
- Air quality fluctuations may depend more on weather, vehicular emissions, and agricultural burning than just crackers.
Unless the authorities maintain round-the-clock vigilance, the benefits of this verdict may be diluted.
Past Judgments & Pollution Trends
The concept of green firecrackers dates back to the Arjun Gopal vs. Union of India judgement (2018), which first permitted eco-friendlier crackers under supervision.
Over the years, Delhi has witnessed severe post-Diwali air spikes, with PM2.5 levels crossing hazardous thresholds.
Some past efforts showed modest improvements—but critics claim that even green crackers resulted in pollution surges in windless or inversion-prone conditions.
Thus, the Green Crackers verdict can be seen as a cautious experimentation in controlled relaxation.
What Happens Next & Monitoring
- The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are mandated to monitor air quality from October 14 to 21 and submit reports.
- The court may revisit the policy based on data and decide whether to extend or curtail the relaxation in subsequent years.
- Violators – whether manufacturers or sellers – face immediate action including license suspension.
- Public awareness campaigns will likely accompany the rollout to ensure compliance.
The Green Crackers verdict marks a significant shift in the regulatory approach toward firecrackers in Delhi and NCR. It reflects an attempt to combine festive ethos with environmental responsibility. The strict conditions—QR codes, limited timing, official oversight—aim to prevent misuse and smuggling.
