850 Industries Get White Category Status as MPCB Simplifies Approvals

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has expanded the list of industries classified under the 'White Category' by adding 850 industrial activities, a move expected to ease regulatory processes and support small, cottage and home-based businesses across the state.

The decision has been taken in line with the state government's Ease of Doing Business policy and in accordance with guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Industries placed under the White Category are considered practically non-polluting and do not require routine environmental clearances.
Earlier, the CPCB had included 54 industrial activities in the White Category. Maharashtra later increased this number to 222. With the latest expansion to 850 activities, the state becomes the first in the country to bring such a large number of industries under this classification.

As per the revised process, industrial units falling under the White Category will need to submit only a one-page online application for registration. Once the application is received, approval will be granted immediately through the online system. No environmental fees will be charged for these units.

Officials said the move would benefit a wide range of small-scale and household-level industries, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. These include handmade jewellery units, eco-friendly agarbatti and dhoop manufacturing, computer and electronics assembly units, television and appliance assembly, book binding, cement pipe and moulded product manufacturing, leather and footwear units without chemical processing, papad-making units, flour mills, spice blending facilities and dry masala processing centres.

The MPCB has informed the Central Pollution Control Board about the inclusion of the 850 industrial activities. The CPCB has welcomed the step, noting its alignment with environmentally responsible industrial practices.
MPCB chairman Siddhesh Kadam said the decision would strengthen home-based, cottage and small-scale industries in both urban and rural parts of Maharashtra and help boost local economies.

Member secretary Devender Singh, IAS, said the Board has focused on reducing the time taken for environmental approvals and simplifying procedures for businesses. He added that permanent permission for setting up units under the White Category through a single application would open up employment opportunities across the state.

Officials said the initiative is expected to reduce the regulatory burden on low-impact industries while ensuring compliance with environmental norms.