Telangana Ramps Up E-Waste Processing, Becomes National Leader in Growth

Telangana has crossed the 1 lakh metric tonne (MT) mark in e-waste processing for the first time, recording 1,19,187 MT in 2024-25—a sharp rise from 65,226 MT in 2023-24. This makes it the third-largest contributor of e-waste nationally, and second in processing growth after Uttar Pradesh. Telangana now accounts for 8.5% of the country’s total e-waste processing capacity, as per data shared by the Ministry of Environment in the Lok Sabha. The state has achieved a threefold rise in e-waste processing since 2021-22 despite operating only 19 recycling centres, mainly in Greater Hyderabad. Officials credit the growth to increased involvement of IT firms, the expansion of electronics and mobile manufacturing, and the state’s proactive e-waste policy. Recently, three new recycling plants have also been approved to meet rising demand. Nationally, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has launched an online EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) portal for registration of producers, recyclers, and refurbishers. Under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, these entities must also raise awareness among consumers, encouraging responsible disposal through certified facilities only.