Jaipur, May 29 -- Amid rising concerns over mounting electronic waste and its impact on public health and the environment, the Rajasthan government has intensified its e-waste management drive by expanding collection and recycling systems across the state, according to an official release. The move comes at a time when India has emerged as the world's third-largest producer of electronic waste after China and the United States, with e-waste generation rising sharply over the last five years. Officials said the state government is implementing the "Rajasthan E-Waste Management Policy-2023" to create an organised framework for collection, transportation, recycling and disposal of electronic waste. The policy aims to curb the growing practice of informal recycling, which environmental authorities say is causing serious pollution and health hazards. Discarded electronic items such as mobile phones, televisions, air conditioners, washing machines, chargers and computers often contain toxic metals including lead, mercury, chromium and arsenic. Experts warn that unauthorised processing through burning and acid treatment contaminates air, soil and water and can lead to respiratory diseases, neurological disorders and cancer. According to data presented in the Rajya Sabha, India's e-waste generation increased from 1.01 million metric tonnes in 2019-20 to 1.751 million metric tonnes in 2023-24. The Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board, which has been made the nodal agency for implementing the policy, is also conducting awareness programmes and workshops for recyclers, refurbishers and stakeholders associated with the recycling sector. Officials said the policy focuses on establishing authorised collection centres, promoting recycling industries, generating employment and encouraging circular economy practices....