The Government of Nagaland has announced a comprehensive ban on single-use plastics, effective August 1, 2024. This decision follows the Special Task Force (STF) meeting held on June 20, 2024, aimed at addressing the rampant use of single-use plastics and plastic bottles in the state.
The ban will encompass:
All single-use plastic (SUP) carry bags, regardless of thickness.
All single-use plastic bottles for water and soft drinks under one (1) litre.
The directive mandates that all individuals, institutions, and commercial establishments—including educational institutions, offices, hotels, shops, restaurants, religious institutions, industrial establishments, and banquet halls—must comply with the new regulations. Non-compliance will result in punitive measures.
It further added that District Task Forces, established in each district, will oversee enforcement. These task forces will act as vigilance squads to ensure adherence to the ban, monitoring the stocking, distribution, sale, and use of prohibited items within their jurisdictions.
The penalties for violations include a fine of Rs 10,000 for the first offence, Rs 20,000 for the second offence and Permit cancellation for subsequent offences.
The District Task Forces will conduct regular monitoring and hold quarterly meetings to enforce the ban effectively and an Action Taken Report (ATR) will be submitted to the government regularly.
(DIPR)