Why in News? 

SC has lifted the blanket ban on fireworks in Delhi-NCR, allowing NEERI & PESO-approved green crackers for Deepavali 2025. Court termed this a “test case” to balance festive celebrations with pollution control, citing issues with smuggling & harmful firework use under total bans. 

• Emission Control: Smaller shell size, no ash, less raw material, addition of dust suppressants; ≥30% PM reduction, or 20% PM + 10% SO₂/NO₂ reduction vs conventional crackers. 
• Types: Improved Fireworks– Cleaner versions of existing crackers; New Formulation Fireworks– Made with new materials to cut emissions. 
• Arjun Gopal vs Union of India (2018) – SC banned non-certified crackers with barium salts, allowed only PESO-approved green crackers.