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Plastic Free India: A Comprehensive Assessment of Policy Implementation, Public Awareness, and Environmental Impact

Prof Dr. Anjana Singha

Abstract
India faces a critical environmental challenge with plastic pollution, generating approximately 4 million tonnes of plastic waste annually. This research examines the effectiveness of India's plastic-free initiatives, focusing on the implementation of the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2021, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies, and single-use plastic bans. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with 1,000 participants across major Indian cities and qualitative analysis of policy documents. Key findings reveal that while 68% of respondents are aware of plastic-free initiatives, only 45% actively participate in sustainable practices. The research identifies significant gaps between policy formulation and ground-level implementation, with urban areas showing better compliance (62%) compared to rural regions (34%). The study highlights the role of biodegradable alternatives, which have seen a 78% increase in adoption among environmentally conscious consumers. However, challenges persist in infrastructure development, public awareness, and economic incentives for sustainable practices. The research concludes that India's journey toward becoming plastic-free requires strengthened enforcement mechanisms, enhanced public-private partnerships, and accelerated development of circular economy models. Policy recommendations include establishing robust monitoring systems, incentivizing green alternatives, and strengthening the informal waste management sector. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights for policymakers, environmental organizations, and industry stakeholders working toward India's plastic-free future, demonstrating that while progress has been made, sustained multi-stakeholder collaboration is essential for achieving the ambitious goal of a plastic-free India by 2030.

Keyword: Extended producer Responsibility, Robust monitoring system, Public-private partnership, Circular economy, Multi stakeholders’ collaboration.