Evolution of Waste Management Policies in India (2000–2024): A Narrative Review

Abstract

This narrative review examines the evolution of waste management policies in India between 2000 and 2024, a period marked by rapid urbanization, rising consumption, and increasing waste complexity. Drawing on government policy documents, national reports, international assessments, and peer-reviewed literature, the review traces regulatory developments across municipal solid waste, plastic waste, biomedical waste, e-waste, construction and demolition waste, and hazardous waste. The analysis highlights a clear shift from fragmented, disposal-oriented approaches to integrated frameworks emphasizing segregation, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), circular economy principles, and digital monitoring systems. Despite sophisticated reforms particularly after 2016 implementation challenges persist due to limited municipal capacity, inadequate funding, weak enforcement, and insufficient inclusion of informal waste workers. The review identifies recurring gaps and synthesizes policy evolution into a conceptual understanding of governance, stakeholder responsibilities, and implementation outcomes.

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