Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Endowment Minister, Ramalinga Reddy, announced on Monday that all temples under the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Department will implement a plastic-free policy beginning August 15.
The Minister stated that directives have been issued to ensure compliance. “From August 15 onward, the use of plastic in temples will be strictly prohibited. We have communicated this mandate to all Executive Officers (EOs) responsible for temple administration,” Reddy emphasized.
During a press conference, he explained the rationale behind the two-month lead time: “We wanted to provide shopkeepers with adequate notice. If we had announced the ban effective immediately, it would have been unrealistic for them to cease selling plastic products overnight. By setting August 15 as our target date, we allow them time to prepare for this transition.”
In response to inquiries about alternatives to plastic, the Minister expressed optimism, stating, “Once the ban is in place, we anticipate that viable alternatives will emerge.” A senior official added, “Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have developed a biodegradable material made from starch, which could serve as a substitute for plastic in the near future.”
This initiative marks a significant step towards environmental sustainability within Karnataka’s religious institutions, reflecting a growing commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
