Jaipur, Nov. 5 -- The Rajasthan government has restricted the manufacture, sale and use of firecrackers in six districts that fall within the National Capital Region (NCR), citing concerns over air pollution and public health. In an order issued on Tuesday night, Shailja Dewal, secretary of the state's environment and climate change department, said the restrictions would apply in Alwar, Bharatpur, Dausa, Deeg, Khairthal-Tijara and Kotputli-Behror. "Only CSIR-NEERI-certified green firecrackers will be permitted in the NCR region. The use of all other types of firecrackers will be strictly prohibited," Dewal said. The guidelines allow green crackers to be used on November 7 and 8, with the complete ban remaining in effect until November 6 and returning on November 9. The department's order lists the permitted hours as 6am to 7pm and 8pm to 10pm, and says crackers will not be allowed outside those periods. "Keeping in mind the health of the public and the safety of sensitive institutions, hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health centres, old-age homes and educational institutions have been declared silence zones," Dewal said. "Firecrackers will not be permitted within a 300-metre radius of these institutions." The guidelines require firecracker packages to carry a product-specific QR code showing details of the manufacturer, NEERI certification, licences issued by PESO and the district magistrate, and production certificates. Sales will be allowed only at designated and authorised shops; online sales are prohibited. The manufacture and sale of firecrackers joined in series, including laddis and garlands, are banned, as are crackers containing barium and those not approved as green crackers. Collectors, superintendents of police and other officials have been directed to prevent the illegal manufacture, storage, transport and sale of firecrackers. Special patrol teams will inspect sale points and other locations....