Maharashtra Government bans use of plastic

Maharashtra Government has banned use of plastic in time-bound manner, citing environmental and public health concerns. The decision was taken at cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The ban will include plastic bags, thermocol, disposable cups and plates, cutlery, non-woven polypropylene bags, plastic pouches and packaging.

Key Facts

The ban exempts plastic used to cover medicines, forest and horticulture products, solid waste, tree saplings and use of plastic in special economic zones (SEZ) for export purposes. Similarly, plastic covers and wrappers used for manufactured and processed products would also be exempted.
The decision will be enforced across rural and urban Maharashtra. All municipal corporations, councils, district collectors and chief executive officers (CEOs) of zilla parishads have been sensitised to ensure its implementation in their respective regions.
All small and medium-scale industries (SMEs) and big industries involved in plastic businesses will be provided adequate time frame to switch over to alternative modes of businesses. Government has recommended various business models along with employment to people engaged in plastic industries.
Government will also provide some incentives to those who strictly adhere to ban decision. There is also proposal to slap penalty such as non-renewing of licences for shops and industries which violate decision.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2018