CPCB Extends Deadline for 37th AQC Exercise Report Submission

Introduction

In a recent update aimed at easing procedural delays, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has extended the deadline for submitting test reports related to the 37th Analytical Quality Control (AQC) exercise. Citing delivery delays of test samples, CPCB has granted an additional two-week window, moving the submission deadline to June 4, 2025. This extension applies to all participating environmental laboratories analyzing samples issued under the certificate dated April 17, 2025, for Heavy Metals and Physicochemical parameters. The AQC Report Submission Extension ensures laboratories can maintain quality standards without being penalized for delays outside their control. Here’s everything you need to know.

Background of the 37th AQC Exercise

CPCB regularly conducts Analytical Quality Control (AQC) exercises to:

Evaluate the analytical capabilities of recognized labs
Ensure standardization and reliability in environmental testing
Promote accuracy in monitoring physicochemical and heavy metal parameters

The 37th round of AQC was initiated under Office Order No. LAB-99/20/2021-INST-LAB-HO-CPCB-HO, dated April 16, 2025. However, due to logistical challenges in sample delivery, many labs reported delayed testing timelines.

Official Update from CPCB

The extension order, approved by the competent authority, clearly states:

“All participating laboratories are now permitted to submit their reports by June 04, 2025 for samples certified on April 17, 2025 under the parameter category ‘Heavy Metals and Physicochemical.’”

This decision reflects CPCB’s understanding of real-time logistics while ensuring data quality is not compromised due to rushed analysis.

What Laboratories Should Do

If you are a participating lab, here’s what this extension means for you:

Complete testing within the extended timeline
Verify all results for heavy metal and physicochemical accuracy
Submit reports by June 4, 2025 via the designated online or physical mode
Ensure your documentation references the certificate dated April 17, 2025
Maintain internal logs showing when samples were received and analyzed

This extension is your opportunity to double-check results before submission.

Compliance Tip for Lab Managers

To meet the deadline without errors:

Assign dedicated analysts to AQC samples
Follow NABL-accredited procedures
Cross-validate values for BOD, COD, TDS, heavy metals (e.g., Pb, Cd, Cr, Hg)
Ensure QA/QC procedures are documented
Submit a summary of observations if you encountered any deviation

What Happens After Submission?

CPCB will:

Evaluate your submitted reports
Compare inter-laboratory results for accuracy
Provide performance feedback and corrections, if needed
Continue your accreditation or recommend corrective actions based on results

Conclusion

The two-week deadline extension provided by CPCB for the 37th AQC report submission is both timely and thoughtful. It gives labs the opportunity to ensure data quality, traceability, and accuracy—key elements in environmental monitoring. Labs should use this period wisely and submit reports before June 4, 2025, to remain in good standing with national quality standards.

Download: AQC Report Submission Extension Announced by CPCB