Gandhinagar: In a powerful step towards a plastic-free Gujarat, over one lakh cloth bags have been used by citizens through Bag ATM machines across the state within just 200 days—marking a major environmental milestone.
About The Initiative
This innovative initiative by the Gujarat government is part of a broader campaign to reduce single-use plastic and empower self-help groups. On World Environment Day, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched 260 new cloth bag vending machines at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, building on the state's commitment to sustainability.
Speaking on the occasion, CM Patel said, “This initiative is a symbol of people’s commitment to environmental protection. Gujarat is leading the way in showing how simple steps like switching to cloth bags can create a big impact.”
So far, more than 20,000 cloth bags have been distributed via the new machines. These vending machines are installed at strategic public locations such as markets, pilgrimage sites, parks, and hospitals, including 13 key temples like Ambaji, Somnath, Dwarka, and Salangpur. Devotees receive prasad in cloth bags, obtainable with a nominal fee via coin or QR code, making the initiative inclusive and accessible.
Each bag dispensed is sourced from women-led self-help groups, ensuring not just environmental responsibility, but also socio-economic empowerment. “Every bag used is a step away from plastic and a step towards women’s self-reliance,” said Minister of State Mukesh Patel, applauding the dual impact of the program.
To monitor progress and ensure transparency, the government has launched the ‘Pratigya Live Dashboard’ – https://pwm.gpcb.gov.in:8443 – providing real-time data on cloth bag usage across Gujarat.
In Ahmedabad alone, around 20 hospitals are equipped with paper bag vending machines, ensuring plastic alternatives are readily available even in critical sectors like healthcare.
Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera said, “This is not just a campaign; it is a mass movement. We want to make cloth and paper bags a habit, not a choice.”
With July 3 recognized as World Plastic Bag Free Day, Gujarat’s success sets a national benchmark in reducing single-use plastics and promoting environmentally conscious alternatives.
