Extension of Timeline for Filing Used Oil EPR Returns for FY 2024-25

Introduction

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has officially extended the filing deadline for the Used Oil EPR Returns under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Second Amendment Rules, 2023. The new deadline now stands extended till 31st December 2025 for FY 2024-25. The Used Oil EPR Returns compliance deadline earlier ended on 30th September 2025. However, after considering stakeholder requests, the Ministry approved the extension. Therefore, industries and registered producers now have additional time to submit their Used Oil EPR Returns without facing non-compliance issues.

Understanding the Background

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) forwarded requests from several stakeholders. Many registered entities under the Extended Producer Responsibility framework for Used Oil sought more time. They highlighted ongoing challenges in data consolidation, record validation, and alignment with portal requirements. Consequently, CPCB recommended the Ministry to extend the deadline for another three months.

Furthermore, the Ministry reviewed the proposal. It examined Rule 30 of the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2024. After evaluation, the Ministry approved the extension. Now, organizations can continue filing their returns without immediate compliance pressure.

Key Highlights of the Office Memorandum

1. Extended Deadline

The deadline for filing returns under the Used Oil EPR framework is now 31st December 2025, specifically for FY 2024-25.

2. Basis of Extension

The CPCB cited stakeholder concerns. Industries requested flexibility. The Ministry recognized the practical challenges and hence supported the extension.

3. Legal Reference

The extension aligns with sub-rule 5 of Rule 30 in the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2024. This ensures regulatory clarity.

4. Applicable Entities

All registered EPR entities, producers, importers, recyclers, and used oil collection agencies must comply by the revised date.

Why This Extension Matters

The extension provides relief to industries dealing with operational workload, supply chain variations, and reporting complexities. Moreover, it encourages accurate record validation and reduces the rush-driven errors in submissions. Additionally, it allows organizations to synchronize reporting cycles with financial planning.

This decision strengthens compliance consistency, improves reporting quality, and ultimately supports environmental sustainability goals. Meanwhile, businesses get a more manageable timeline to align with digital compliance systems.

What Should Businesses Do Now?

Update compliance timelines in internal calendars.
Complete data collection related to used oil recovery, procurement, and recycling.
Validate information before uploading to the designated portal.
Coordinate documentation with CPCB-registered recyclers and collection centers.
Avoid last-minute filing to prevent system congestion.

Consistent tracking and proactive steps will ensure seamless compliance before the 31st December 2025 deadline.

Conclusion

The Ministry’s decision to extend the return filing deadline for Used Oil EPR compliance offers much-needed operational flexibility to industries and service sectors. However, organizations must utilize this time wisely and complete their submissions with accuracy, transparency, and adherence to environmental best practices. Ultimately, timely compliance supports environmental protection, corporate accountability, and sustainable resource management.

Download: Used Oil EPR Returns Deadline Extension Notification