The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has flagged significant gaps in e?waste management across the country, finding that oversight and infrastructure remain inadequate to manage rising volumes of discarded electronic devices. It identified weaknesses in collection systems, segregation processes and scientific recycling capacity that result in uncontrolled handling and potential environmental harm. The tribunal directed central and state governments to review roles and responsibilities and to prepare coordinated action plans for remediation.

NGT noted that the informal sector continues to play a major role in dismantling and recycling, often operating without adequate safety measures, which increases risks to workers and local communities. It emphasised the hazards posed by components such as batteries, mercury containing devices and electronic boards when processed in unregulated settings. The tribunal called for measures to integrate informal workers into formal systems while ensuring health safeguards and regulatory compliance.

The tribunal urged strengthening of the Extended Producer Responsibility programme and tighter monitoring of producer and importer compliance to prevent leakages into informal channels. It recommended expansion of authorised collection points, incentives for formal recyclers and transparency in tracking material flows from sale to end of life. Municipal bodies were advised to build capacity for collection and enforcement, and regulators were asked to streamline licensing and inspection regimes.

NGT underscored the importance of public awareness, research and investment in modern recycling technologies to reduce reliance on rudimentary methods and to recover valuable material streams. It proposed regular reporting and review mechanisms to assess progress and foster inter agency coordination among environment, labour and industry departments. The tribunal signalled that sustained policy attention and resource allocation will be necessary to close existing gaps and protect public health and the environment.