Over 14 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of electronic waste (e-waste) has been generated in the country during 2025–26 so far, out of which more than 9.79 lakh metric tonnes has been recycled, 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 to a question in the Lower House.
Citing data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the minister said that a total of 14,14,645 metric tonnes of e-waste has been generated in the country during 2025–26 so far.
Out of this, 9,79,080 metric tonnes has been recycled, according to the data provided by the CPCB.
The government also shared figures from previous years, showing a steady rise in e-waste generation across the country.
During 2024–25, more than 13.97 lakh metric tonnes of e-waste was generated, out of which over 11.59 lakh metric tonnes was recycled.
Similarly, in 2023–24, over 12.54 lakh metric tonnes of e-waste was generated and more than 7.78 lakh metric tonnes was recycled.
Also read: Govt engaging with private sector to manage e-waste
Explaining the methodology used to estimate e-waste generation, Singh said that the CPCB assesses the figures at the national level based on the average life cycle of 106 notified electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).
These assessments are carried out in accordance with the provisions of the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.
The minister said the rules also provide for verification and audit mechanisms by the CPCB or designated agencies to ensure compliance.
“The rules have provision for verification and audit by the CPCB or through a designated agency to verify compliance through random inspection and periodic audit, so as to take action against violations,” he said.
According to Singh, the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022 aim to ensure environmentally sound management of electronic waste and strengthen the extended producer responsibility (EPR) framework for recycling.
Under the rules, manufacturers, producers, refurbishers and recyclers of electronic equipment are required to register on a dedicated portal developed by the CPCB.
The minister added that the new provisions are also intended to facilitate the integration of the informal sector into the formal recycling system, helping improve compliance and ensure proper handling and recycling of e-waste in the country.
Follow us
