How to recycle or dispose of an old laptop in India

Please don't throw it in the dustbin or sell it to a scrap dealer who'll strip it unsafely. Here are better options, in order:

1. Reuse it: give it to a family member, school or NGO if it still works.
2. Sell it: working laptops have resale value. Wipe your data first. How to wipe properly
3. Brand take-back: many manufacturers run take-back or recycling programmes in India — check their websites.
4. Authorised e-waste recyclers: the Central Pollution Control Board lists authorised recyclers and dismantlers.
5. E-waste collection drives: many cities and housing societies organise them.

Before you hand it over

• Back up and wipe your data
• Remove it from your accounts (Microsoft, Apple ID, Google)
• Remove the battery if it's swollen, and handle it carefully