NT Reporter
Margao
In a step towards the rollout of Goa’s Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS), more than 65 per cent — 127 out of the state’s 191 village panchayats — have issued no objection certificates (NOCs) for the installation of reverse vending machines (RVMs). Four urban local bodies have also granted NOCs.
Sources said that the uptake spans both districts of the state. In North Goa, around 60 per cent of village panchayats — 73 out of 121 — have issued NOCs, while in South Goa, around 77 per cent — 54 out of 70 — have come on board.
“Cleanliness and environmental responsibility are values our village holds dear, and by returning used DRS-friendly packaging, residents can help keep Nadora clean. I urge every family to participate actively and set an example for the rest of Goa,” said Nadora sarpanch Vishwajya Haldankar.
The agency in charge of implementing the DRS said that the early support from key urban local bodies (ULBs) for the installation of DRS collection infrastructure reflects the need for self-sufficient and innovative systems that reduce the financial burden of waste management on ULBs.
“These NOCs will enable the installation of reverse vending machines and manual collection infrastructure at identified locations. This will also ensure that infrastructure placement (collection points) aligns with community needs, accessibility and local waste management practices,” the agency said.
With NOCs in place, the next phase of the DRS rollout is already under way. Reverse vending machines and manual return centres will now be installed at identified locations across participating panchayats and urban bodies.
“This scheme is very useful. We cannot keep bins in the village because people dump wet waste in the same bins, because of which people throw waste along the roadside. Now, because of these machines, people will start depositing their empty bottles in these machines, and they will also get a refund,” said Sal sarpanch Savitri Ghadi.
Anchored by the Department of Environment and Climate Change, the DRS is a state-led waste recovery system that introduces a fully refundable deposit on PET bottles, glass bottles, aluminium cans and multi-layered packaging. The system incentivises consumers to return used containers through a network of reverse vending machines and collection points. Backed by amendments to the Goa Non-Biodegradable Garbage Act, 2013, and notified DRS Rules in 2024, the system establishes a legal and operational framework for statewide implementation.
