PANAJI
Even before Goa rolls out its ambitious Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS), Delhi is exploring a similar bottle-return mechanism, taking a cue from the coastal state. The national capital is considering introducing the scheme on a pilot basis at tourist destinations, with Goa set to implement its own initiative from April 2027, initially covering liquor and liquor-based products.
This would be the second Goa initiative that Delhi is looking to replicate, following the coastal State’s successful implementation of the Pink Force initiative.
Under the proposed scheme, Delhi consumers may have to pay an additional Re 1 or Rs 2 while purchasing a bottle and receive the amount back upon returning it at a designated collection point. The final deposit amount and operational framework are yet to be decided.
Sources said the Delhi government has already held discussions with Dr Anthony De Sa, chairman of the Goa Deposit Refund Scheme Authority, to understand the proposed mechanism and seek suggestions on its implementation.
A meeting to discuss the approval and implementation of the scheme was held on October 6 under Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa.
“We have informed them that in Goa, the DRS will be implemented in a phased manner, starting with liquor and liquor-based products. Here, we will be imposing rates between Rs 2 and Rs 10 over and above the maximum retail price,” sources said.
The chairman also apprised the Delhi government of concerns raised by various stakeholders in Goa, including villagers, retailers and political parties, sources added.
The DRS aims to establish an organised system for collecting plastic waste and encourage consumers to shift from a “use and throw” culture to a “use, return and recover” approach. The proposed Delhi mechanism is expected to use QR codes on bottles to facilitate refunds when containers are returned.
According to a Delhi government report, the national capital generates around 1,500 tonnes of plastic waste daily, of which 19% remains unprocessed. The initiative is being considered against the backdrop of the nationwide ban on identified single-use plastic items introduced in 2022.
Delhi is also studying Uttarakhand’s model as it works on its proposed framework. The government is also expected to involve schools, colleges and Residents’ Welfare Associations to promote awareness and encourage public participation. The collection network, deposit amount and refund mechanism will be finalised as part of the scheme’s development.
