Reference Article: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance:
– GS Paper II: Government Policies, Judiciary’s Role
– GS Paper III: Environmental Pollution & Conservation, Health, Technology
– Essay/ Ethics: Tradition vs. Public Interest, Sustainable Development
This Deepavali, the Supreme Court of India has modified its 2018 ban and allowed only ‘green crackers’ in Delhi — a move signalling a calibrated shift from blanket prohibition to conditional tolerance. The decision reflects an attempt to balance cultural tradition, economic livelihoods, and environmental priorities, especially as Delhi faces a public health emergency every winter due to severe air pollution.
Why the Policy Shift?
Cultural & Economic Realities
- Firecrackers are a deeply rooted cultural expression of celebration during Deepavali.
- The firecracker industry employs lakhs, especially in Sivakasi (Tamil Nadu), making it economically sensitive.
Political Shift
- The reintroduction of controlled firecrackers marks a change in approach post-BJP government, opting for regulated celebration over absolute bans.
Pollution Realities in Delhi
Delhi’s polluted air is not caused by one factor. Scientific monitoring shows a multi-source, seasonal crisis:
| Major Contributors | Type |
|---|---|
| Vehicle emissions | Round the year |
| Stubble burning (Punjab, Haryana) | Oct–Nov peak |
| Biomass burning | Winter homes |
| Construction dust | Continuous |
| Weather + wind patterns | Traps pollutants |
| Firecrackers | Extremely harmful but temporary spike |
However, firecrackers intensify an already toxic air situation — worsening health outcomes just as winter inversion traps pollutants over the city.
Green Crackers — A Middle Path?
- Reduce emissions by nearly 30–70%, but not zero pollution.
- Represent a middle ground — tradition retained, damage minimised.
- But cannot become an excuse to ignore deeper, long-term solutions.
Broader Message
The real solution lies in:
- Comprehensive year-round action, not festive-season blame games
- Science-based policymaking, not religious or political posturing
- Public cooperation, not just judicial intervention
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision mirrors the Indian state’s struggle to reconcile faith, economy, and ecology. While green crackers are a pragmatic compromise, the larger war for clean air requires sustained, scientific policymaking beyond symbolism.
UPSC Mains Practice Question (GS Paper III):
“Judicial moderation over absolute prohibition reflects a mature balancing of rights. In the context of firecracker regulation, critically examine how India can harmonise cultural freedoms with public health imperatives.”
