Maha kumbh nagar – The Maha Kumbh 2025, the world’s largest religious congregation, witnessed a significant initiative aimed at sustainability with the launch of the ‘One Plate, One Bag’ campaign. The initiative, spearheaded by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), seeks to ensure that the event is entirely free of plastic waste.
The campaign was inaugurated on the Old GT Road in Sector 18 by Krishna Gopal, Sah-Sarkaryavah of the RSS. The effort focuses on replacing plastic bags and disposable items with environmentally friendly alternatives such as cloth bags, steel plates, and glasses.
Addressing the gathering, Krishna Gopal emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in creating a plastic-free society. He urged pilgrims to adopt the use of cloth bags as a sustainable habit. “We must come together to protect our environment and take steps to eliminate plastic from our daily lives,” he said.
According to Murar Tripathi, Prant Prachar Pramukh of the RSS, over 70,000 cloth bags have already been distributed to visitors from six centres. Furthermore, 2 million steel plates and glasses, collected from across the country, are being distributed to replace plastic and thermocol utensils.
“These steel plates and glasses are being allocated to all community kitchens (langars) and food outlets operating within the mela area. The aim is to ensure that pilgrims and vendors alike contribute to an eco-friendly Maha Kumbh,” Mr Tripathi explained.
The event saw the presence of several notable figures, including Rajendra Saxena, RSS Kshetra Marg Pramukh, and Ramesh Kumar, Prant Pracharak of the Kashi region. Their participation underscored the significance of the initiative and the commitment to sustainable practices.
On January 14, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended greetings on the occasion of Makar Sankranti and the first ‘Amrit Snan’. In his address, he urged pilgrims to adopt eco-friendly practices and avoid single-use plastics during their pilgrimage.
The Maha Kumbh 2025, which began on January 13, has set an example of integrating cultural and spiritual traditions with environmental consciousness. The ‘One Plate, One Bag’ campaign reflects a broader vision of creating a sustainable future by encouraging responsible practices at one of the most celebrated events in India.
This initiative marks a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and promoting eco-consciousness at a large-scale event, setting a benchmark for future gatherings.
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