Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has announced a 5 per cent rebate on property tax for households that manage their waste at the source using approved methods.

The rebate is available only to homes that use waste treatment systems approved by the Suchitwa Mission. Currently, 23 systems have been approved, including:

Ring composting

Mosspit composting

Clay composting

Worm composting

Portable bin/bucket composting

Portable household biobin composting

Biodegradable jar composting

Here’s how to apply

Homeowners must apply for the rebate through the Harithamithram portal or the K-Smart app, clearly specifying the system they use.

Once the application is submitted, the local ward official, with help of the Haritha Karma Sena, will inspect the household to ensure the waste treatment system is in proper working condition. If approved, the 5% property tax rebate will be granted for one year. Further rebates can be considered after fresh inspections in the following years.

Current coverage and expansion plans

According to a Kudumbashree survey, only 26% of households in Kerala currently treat waste at the source. However, the state government plans to expand this initiative to cover all households in a phased manner.