Tag: Waste Management Goa

Business

Alcoholic Beverage Industry Urges Goa Government to Defer Deposit Refund System

rencygomes02

Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Industry associations from the alcoholic beverage sector have appealed to the Goa government to postpone the implementation of the proposed Deposit Refund System (DRS), raising concerns over its readiness and feasibility within the stipulated timeframe.


According to industry representatives, the current timeline for rolling out the DRS is too short for manufacturers, distributors and retailers to put the necessary infrastructure in place. They argue that implementing the system without adequate preparation could disrupt supply chains and create logistical challenges across the state.

The Deposit Refund System is aimed at improving waste management and boosting recycling rates by levying a refundable deposit on beverage containers. Consumers receive the deposit amount back upon returning the empty bottles or cans to designated collection points.

However, industry bodies claim that several operational aspects — including reverse logistics, storage facilities, barcode integration, retailer onboarding and consumer awareness — require more clarity and time before full-scale implementation.

Stakeholders have called for a phased rollout or an extended transition period to allow businesses to adapt smoothly. They emphasised that while the industry supports sustainable waste management initiatives, the framework must be practical and economically viable.

The Goa government is yet to respond formally to the industry’s request, but discussions are expected as stakeholders push for a balanced approach between environmental goals and business feasibility.

EduConnect

ATAL Nirnay – Goa Codes 2026: CARES Leads Goa’s Green Innovation Movement

Tanisha Cardozo

“ATAL Nirnay – Goa Codes 2026” has emerged as a significant student-driven initiative aimed at addressing pressing environmental challenges in the State, particularly those related to pollution and waste management. Conceptualised with the philosophy that meaningful change begins with responsible individual decisions, the competition encourages students from Classes VI to IX to actively participate in environmental transformation through innovation, technology, awareness and community engagement.

The 28-day structured challenge commenced on February 2, 2026, with statewide orientation sessions for Heads of Institutions. The format recognises that building sustainable habits requires consistent effort, encouraging long-term waste segregation practices, environmental accountability and community awareness rather than one-day activities. The focus extends beyond participation to nurturing lasting environmental values among students.

The competition integrates eco-awareness, robotics and innovation through five structured events: the Smart Waste Solution Challenge, Garbage Awareness Campaign from Home to Community, Clean Goa Action Drive, Digital Awareness Campaign, and Study and Documentation. Students identify real waste management challenges, design innovative models and prototypes using Robotics Hardware Kits provided under the CARES scheme, conduct awareness initiatives and document measurable environmental impact.

The initiative is organised by the Project Management Unit under the CARES Scheme of the Directorate of Technical Education Goa, in association with Goa Waste Management Corporation. A total of 688 teams from schools across Goa have registered, reflecting widespread participation and enthusiasm. GWMC is facilitating infrastructure for waste collection during cleanliness drives and will coordinate on identified “Black Spots” where waste frequently accumulates, ensuring student activities connect directly with governance mechanisms.

Mentorship support is being provided by Teach for Goa Fellows, who are guiding schools with technical assistance and coordination. Teachers and students have been trained in the use of Robotics Hardware Kits to develop practical eco-tech solutions, effectively blending environmental awareness with technological skill development.

Attractive cash prizes have been announced to encourage active participation. State-level winners will receive ₹50,000 for first place, ₹40,000 for second place and ₹30,000 for third place, with additional consolation and taluka-level awards. The prize money will be awarded to the respective schools.

ATAL Nirnay represents a grassroots movement aimed at fostering positivity and cleanliness across Goa, beginning from homes, classrooms and neighbourhoods. By reinforcing the idea that small individual actions can generate extraordinary community impact, the initiative aspires to cultivate a culture of sustainability, responsibility and innovation across the State.