MARGAO
A delegation of the All Goa FMCG & Telecom Distributors Association called on the Chairman of the Law Commission and former Environment Minister Alexio Sequeira and explained their viewpoint and opposition to the Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS).
The delegation, led by AGFTDA general secretary Chetan Kapdi and member Vinayak Mordekar, handed over a copy of the AGFTDA representation addressed to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant opposing the implementation of the DRS in Goa from April 1.
The delegation drew the attention of the Law Commission Chairman to their serious concerns and strong opposition to the proposed implementation of the Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS) in Goa with effect from 1 April 2026.
“After a detailed study of the policy, our Executive Body is of the considered view that the scheme, in its present form, will have far-reaching adverse consequences for the people of Goa, tourists visiting the State, as well as for retailers, FMCG distributors and manufacturers operating here,” they said.
While acknowledging that solid waste management is a genuine concern requiring effective solutions, the delegation pointed out that the proposed DRS will prove to be far more damaging than the problem it seeks to address. In its current design, the DRS is an ill-conceived, anti-consumer and anti-industry measure that will impose undue hardship on all stakeholders without delivering commensurate environmental benefits, they said.
“The DRS, in its present form, is counterproductive and will harm consumers, trade, tourism and the overall economy of Goa,” they pointed out.
While requesting the Government to reconsider and scrap the proposed DRS policy, the delegation called for engaging with all stakeholders to evolve alternative, practical and inclusive solutions for waste management.
