'One Plate, One Bag' Initiative Launches to Make Maha Kumbh 2025 Plastic-Free

'One Plate, One Bag' Initiative Launches to Make Maha Kumbh 2025 Plastic-Free (Image: HT)

In an effort to make Maha Kumbh 2025 an eco-friendly event, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has launched the "One Plate, One Bag" initiative. The campaign, inaugurated in Sector 18 on the Old GT Road, aims to replace plastic bags and disposable utensils with sustainable alternatives.

Krishna Gopal, the RSS Sah-Sarkaryavah, formally introduced the campaign, urging collective efforts to eliminate plastic use. Addressing the pilgrims, he stressed the importance of adopting cloth bags and reusable items to create a plastic-free society.

Eco-Friendly Measures at Maha Kumbh

As part of the campaign, cloth bags are being distributed to visitors. Murar Tripathi, Prant Prachar Pramukh of the RSS, revealed that around 70,000 cloth bags have already been handed out from six distribution centres.

To further promote sustainability, 2 million steel plates and glasses have been collected from across the country. These reusable items are being distributed to langars (community kitchens) and food outlets within the Maha Kumbh area, replacing single-use plastic and thermocol utensils.

Tripathi explained, “These steel plates and glasses will ensure that pilgrims have access to eco-friendly alternatives, reducing plastic waste significantly during this massive gathering.”

Prominent Support and Leadership

The launch event witnessed the presence of notable RSS members, including Rajendra Saxena, Kshetra Marg Pramukh, and Ramesh Kumar, Prant Pracharak of the Kashi region. Their active involvement highlights the commitment of various stakeholders to the initiative's success.

Government’s Call for Sustainable Practices
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also emphasised the importance of eco-friendly practices during Maha Kumbh. While extending greetings on Makar Sankranti and the first 'Amrit Snan,' the Chief Minister urged pilgrims to avoid single-use plastics and adopt sustainable alternatives.

A Step Towards Sustainability

The "One Plate, One Bag" initiative aligns with the broader goal of ensuring a cleaner, greener environment at Maha Kumbh, the world's largest religious gathering. By encouraging the use of cloth bags and steel utensils, this campaign sets a remarkable example of combining tradition with environmental consciousness.

As millions of pilgrims gather at Maha Kumbh 2025, such initiatives showcase the collective resolve to preserve the planet while honouring age-old spiritual practices.