PM Modi highlights Sitamarhi's plastic-to-bench model in 'Mann Ki Baat'
New Delhi, July 27
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the latest episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', drew national attention to plastic pollution, a pressing global environmental challenge and an easy and possible solution that has emerged from Sitamarhi district in Bihar.
Plastic pollution remains one of the most pressing global environmental challenges. Single-use plastic waste persists in nature for years, clogging drains, harming soil fertility and polluting water sources. Proper collection, scientific recycling and reuse have therefore become essential.
PM Modi mentioned the Sitamarhi initiative, "Waste to wealth", where waste is being recycled. Single-use plastic waste is being transformed into strong, durable, comfortable and eco-friendly benches.
Each bench made consumes approximately 40 kilograms of single-use plastic. These benches are durable and attractive, and are being installed in government schools, parks and other public spaces.
The initiative not only provides useful seating but also spreads awareness about environmental conservation among students and citizens, he said.
Children are learning that the plastic they once discarded as waste can, through technology and proper management, become a valuable community asset. This effort demonstrates that the principles of "Reduce, Reuse and Recycle" are no longer mere slogans but are becoming an integral part of daily life, PM Modi said.
"The district administration has also played a pivotal role, partnering with the local unit," he said.
Plastic is collected from across the district, cleaned, sorted and processed before being moulded into benches. In one documented phase, about 8,000 kg of single-use plastic was collected from four blocks (Dumra, Riga, Bajpatti and Runnisaidpur); 4,000 kg of it was recycled into 85 attractive benches.
The model includes revenue-sharing arrangements that support the administration while sustaining the industrial partner, and it creates local employment in collection, sorting, transport and processing.
By turning a persistent pollutant into useful public infrastructure, Sitamarhi offers a practical, replicable example of circular economy in action.
PM Modi's message from 'Mann Ki Baat' is clear: collective participation in segregation and recycling can convert an environmental challenge into an opportunity for cleaner surroundings, local livelihoods and a more sustainable India.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Impressive numbers - 8000 kg plastic collected, 4000 kg recycled into 85 benches, each bench using 40 kg plastic. This is exactly the kind of local innovation we need. But I hope the revenue-sharing model is transparent and benefits the local workers properly. Good initiative overall.
A practical circular economy model from Sitamarhi - converting plastic waste into durable public benches. This is the kind of grassroots innovation that deserves national recognition. The environmental and social benefits are clear. Well done, PM Modi for highlighting this.
It's great that they're recycling plastic into benches, but I wish the article mentioned more about the revenue-sharing and employment details. How many local jobs were created? Are the benches comfortable for long-term use? Still, any step to tackle plastic pollution is appreciated. 🎯
PM Modi ki 'Mann Ki Baat' mein Bihar ka naam sunke bahut achha laga. Plastic pollution ek global problem hai aur Sitamarhi ne dikhaya ki desh ke chhote sheher bhi bade solutions de sakte hain. 8000 kg plastic collect karna koi joke nahi hai - hats off to district administration! 🇮🇳
This is a brilliant example of turning a problem into an opportunity. The environmental impact of plastic pollution is devastating, and initiatives like this show that community-driven solutions can work. I only hope the benches are weatherproof and last long. Very inspiring! 💚
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