Notification: Extension of Deadline for Submitting Annual Returns for Battery Producers

The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has issued a notification in response to a request from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) dated July 1, 2024. This notification extends the deadline for battery producers to file their Annual Returns, allowing them to meet compliance obligations under the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022.

Main Highlights of the Notification:

1. Reference to CPCB Request :On July 1, 2024, the CPCB requested a two-month extension for producers to file their Annual Returns.

2. Regulatory Framework : In a letter dated July 1, 2024, the CPCB requested a two-month extension for producers to submit their Annual Returns.

   • According to Rule 4(11) of the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 (published under S.O. 3984(E) on August 24, 2022), producers must submit annual returns detailing the collection, recycling, or refurbishment of waste batteries. These returns, in Form 3, are due by June 30th of the following financial year to both the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the respective State Pollution Control Boards.

   • Rule 14(6) of the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022, as amended and published under S.O. 4669(E) on October 25, 2023, grants the Central Government authority to extend the deadline for filing returns by producers, recyclers, and refurbishers by up to nine months.

3. Extension Granted: In response to the CPCB's request, the Central Government has extended the deadline for battery producers to submit their Annual Returns for the fiscal year 2023-24 until August 30, 2024.

4. Approval: This extension has been granted with approval from the Competent Authority.