Eco-Friendly Farewell: Haryana Leads the Green Crematorium Revolution!

New Delhi , March 7, 2025 – The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has taken a major step toward environmental conservation by supporting the state-wide expansion of Green Crematoriums. The initiative, presented by retired IAS officer Sunil K. Gulati, aims to replace traditional wood-based cremation with eco-friendly alternatives using cow dung sticks (Gaukashth).

The concept of Green Crematoriums has already been successfully implemented in various villages of Sirsa district with the efforts of environmentalist Dr. Ram Ji Jaimal from Village Darbi, Sirsa. Studies conducted by the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, have confirmed the efficiency of this method, stating that it requires only 60 kg of cow dung sticks compared to 500-600 kg of wood used in conventional cremation. Additionally, this approach is cost-effective, smoke-free, and viable even in adverse weather conditions.

Gulati emphasized the need for financial and managerial support from the Haryana Government, as the existing Green Crematoriums are currently maintained by villagers. To address this concern, HHRC has recommended that the state government allocate funds from the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). The Commission noted that significant unutilized funds exist within CAMPA and should be directed toward the implementation of Green Crematoriums across Haryana.

During the proceedings, HHRC, chaired by Justice Lalit Batra along with members Kuldeep Jain and Deep Bhatia, acknowledged the significant environmental benefits of Green Crematoriums. The Commission highlighted the following advantages:

Utilization of State Funds

State Funds: These refer to the monies deposited by user agencies (such as forest departments and state governments) into the State Compensatory Afforestation Fund.

Forest Produce Saving Devices: The rule allows the use of state funds to promote devices that reduce dependence on forest resources, such as fuel-efficient stoves and solar-powered systems.

Forest Fringe Villages: The funds can be used specifically for villages located on the periphery of forests, where residents are highly dependent on forest resources.

Objectives

Reducing Dependence on Forest Resources: The primary aim is to lower the reliance of local communities on forest wood, promoting conservation.

Improving Livelihoods: Providing alternative energy sources enhances the economic conditions of forest-dependent communities.

Environmental Conservation: The initiative helps preserve forest cover and encourages sustainable resource use.

Implementation

National Authority: The authority established under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016, oversees the execution of the rule.

State Governments: In consultation with the National Authority, state governments identify suitable villages and implement forest-saving devices.

Monitoring and Evaluation: The implementation is regularly assessed to measure its effectiveness in reducing forest resource dependency and enhancing livelihoods.

During the hearing, the full commission—comprising Chairman Justice Lalit Batra and members Shri Kuldeep Jain and Shri Deep Bhatia—recorded in its order the legal aspects of utilizing CAMPA funds for this initiative. As per Rule 5(2)(l) of the Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAF) Rules, 2018, state funds can be used for forest conservation and for promoting devices that reduce dependence on forest resources. The proposal to use these funds for Green Crematoriums was supported by Haryana’s Additional Chief Secretary for Environment, Forest, and Wildlife, Anand Mohan Sharan, IAS, who raised no objections to its implementation.

The initiative aims to benefit not only human cremation but also extend its reach to animal cremation, providing an eco-friendly alternative for pets and bovines. Additionally, no new land acquisition is required, as Green Crematoriums can be established on existing cremation grounds. The Development and Panchayat Department has already prepared a project estimate, which has been submitted to the authorities for further review. The HHRC has instructed various government bodies, including the Urban Local Bodies, Pollution Control Board, and Gau Sewa Aayog, to work in coordination to implement the project effectively. The government is also expected to launch an awareness campaign to educate communities on the benefits of Green Crematoriums and encourage their adoption.

Dr. Puneet Arora, Protocol, Information & Public Relations Officer of the Haryana Human Rights Commission, stated that given the seriousness of this matter the next hearing on this matter is scheduled for May 21, 2025, where progress reports will be submitted by concerned departments. If implemented successfully, Haryana’s Green Crematorium initiative could serve as a model for other Indian states, leading to nationwide adoption of sustainable cremation practices.