The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India, has announced an extension for the filing of annual returns under the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022. The extension applies to producers of batteries who must submit their annual returns for the financial year 2024-25. The new deadline for filing these returns is now 30th September 2025.
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Background of Battery Waste Management Rules
Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022, published on 24th August 2022, require producers to file annual returns on waste batteries collected, recycled, or refurbished. These returns must be submitted to the CPCB and concerned State Pollution Control Boards using Form 3. Initially, the deadline for submission was set as 30th June of the following financial year. This rule supports the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, which holds producers accountable for managing battery waste responsibly.
Government’s Authority to Extend Deadlines
According to rule 14(6) of the Battery Waste Management Rules and its amendment dated 25th October 2023, the Central Government holds the power to relax the timelines for filing returns. The government may extend deadlines by up to nine months to ensure effective implementation of the rules. In this case, the Ministry has exercised this authority to provide additional time for producers to comply with their annual return obligations.
Impact of the Extension on Producers and Environmental Goals
The extension to 30th September 2025 allows battery producers more time to accurately compile and submit data on battery waste management. This helps improve compliance and supports better monitoring of battery recycling and refurbishment activities. Timely and accurate filing of annual returns is crucial for tracking progress in reducing battery waste and protecting the environment. The move aligns with India’s broader environmental goals and commitment to sustainable waste management practices.
This extension is expected to benefit producers and regulators by ensuring a smooth reporting process under the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022. Producers are advised to use the additional time effectively to meet all filing requirements and contribute to the nation’s environmental protection efforts.
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