The Union Environment Ministry has officially recognised 86 sectors as ‘white’ category industries, identified as minimal polluters with negligible impact on water and air quality. The move seeks to simplify environmental clearance processes and redirect regulatory attention towards high-impact industries under the ‘red’, ‘orange’, and ‘green’ categories. The classification, announced through an updated notification, includes a range of renewable energy, light manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality units. These industries function without boilers or reactors, ensuring minimal emission or discharge, and thus require only basic compliance norms.
Also Read: Damodar Valley, Once India’s Ruhr, Now Looking to Green Future
Renewable Energy Projects Find Place in Pollution-Free List
Reflecting India’s growing climate commitments, the ministry has granted ‘white’ category recognition to solar power plants, wind energy projects, and mini hydel power plants up to 25 MW capacity. The inclusion of compressed biogas facilities, which must use agricultural residue, solid waste, and organic material, marks a shift towards supporting the circular economy model. Officials noted that easing restrictions on small and clean power generators will accelerate renewable capacity addition, a key goal under India’s net-zero 2070 roadmap.
Also Read: Jharkhand Lost Two-Thirds of Its Elephant Population in Eight Years, DNA Based Census Revealed
Light Manufacturing and Health Sectors Benefit
Among industrial units, bicycle and baby carriage assembly, as well as medical oxygen production and surgical product manufacturing, have been recognised as low-impact operations. This category also extends to micro and small-scale cosmetic and hygiene product makers including firms producing hair oil, toothpaste, perfume, and sanitisers provided their processes do not generate effluents. The ministry stated that this decision reduces the regulatory burden on small entrepreneurs while ensuring adherence to sustainability standards.
Also Read: Jharkhand Government Launched Green Audit Plan for Sustainable Industrial Growth
Hospitality and Defense Units Added to the List
In a notable expansion, restaurants, cloud kitchens, and resorts without accommodation facilities are now part of the ‘white’ category. This recognition marks a first for the hospitality industry, which will now face fewer procedural hurdles for operational clearances. Additionally, railway sidings established solely for defense purposes have been included, acknowledging their limited environmental footprint and strategic importance.
Also Read: CMPDI Expanded CSR Portfolio, Added Green Energy and Health Projects
Balancing Regulation with Sustainable Growth
The revised framework aligns with the Government’s risk based environmental management strategy, ensuring strict oversight of heavy polluters while simplifying procedures for cleaner sectors. By expanding the white category, the Ministry seeks to encourage sustainable business practices, promote innovation in clean technologies, and support India’s long-term vision of inclusive, low-carbon growth.
Also Read: Indian Railways Set to Introduce Ticket Rescheduling Feature Without Cancellation Fees
Join the WhatsApp Group of Business Jharkhand to Stay tuned for all the latest updates of industrial-political developments in Jharkhand.
