Devuniguda Gram Panchayat in Jannaram Mandal, Mancherial District, Telangana successfully reduced reliance on single use plastic items by adopting sustainable alternative solutions like jute bags and steel utensils instead of single use plastics, for local ceremonial functions. This initiative aimed to reduce the overall plastic pollution in the gram panchayats of Macherial district.

Steel Bank for Reusable Utensils: Devuniguda GP set up a steel utensil banks where villagers could rent steel utensils at very nominal prices for various community events and family functions. This helped to cut down the usage and dependency of disposable plastic utensils, significantly reducing plastic waste in villages. Distribution of Jute Bags: The GP distributed jute bags printed with motivational slogans to every household. This initiative not only decreased the use of plastic bags but also promoted sustainable alternatives among the communities. Community Awareness Programs: The GP conducted regular awareness programs to keep the community informed and engaged in plastic waste reduction efforts, ensuring everyone understood and participated in the initiative.

Use of steel utensils and jute bags, reduced plastic waste, resulted in minimal litter and no plastic waste dump.

Establishment of local shops: GPs and rural local bodies can set up local shops and community centers where residents can rent and purchase steel utensils for functions, thus, cutting down on usage of single use plastic. Collaboration with Self Help Group members: GPs can collaborate with local self-help group members for manufacturing and distribution of jute bags. Gram Sabha Resolution: Gram panchayat may organise periodic Gram Sabha meetings to garner support for the plastic-free village initiative and further reinforce it by passing a GP resolution on ban of single use plastic items.

"The information presented in this success story is based on secondary research and may not be entirely accurate or up to date. Readers are encouraged to verify the information independently and exercise their own judgment. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change does not endorse or take responsibility for the accuracy of the contents herein"