Live DRS Demos in Bicholim, Pernem, Tiswadi, Bardez, Canacona Draw Public Interest
~ Ease of use and reward-based participation emerge as key strengths of the model, say panchayat officials
Panaji, June 2026 — The Goa Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS) continued its statewide outreach with live demonstrations at village panchayats in Agonda, Poinguinim (Canacona), Tivrem-Orgao, Velguem (Bicholim), Corgao, Morjim, Arambol (Pernem), Azossim, Taleigao (Tiswadi), Assagao, Parra (Bardez), engaging residents and local leaders on the benefits of returning used non-biodegradable packaging for refunds.
These demonstrations spanning multiple talukas are part of the increasing ongoing Information, Education and Communication (IEC) efforts under Goa’s Deposit Refund Scheme, a government-led initiative aimed at reducing litter, improving recycling outcomes, and encouraging responsible waste disposal through financial incentives.
At each location, residents and elected representatives were introduced to the functioning of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and the broader DRS ecosystem, including eligible materials, QR-based identification, and refund processing. These sessions focused on simplifying participation and building confidence in the system through hands-on interaction.
The government has launched this scheme with the objective of making villages free from discarded plastic and glass waste and promoting cleaner surroundings. Since residents will receive refunds for returning eligible containers, villagers were encouraged to actively participate in keeping the village litter-free, said Secretary Rajat Navkar, Arambol Panchayat. Sarpanch Divya Gaondekar, Arambol Panchayat too appealed to citizens to cooperate with the Panchayat in making the initiative successful and maintaining a clean and beautiful village.
Community turnout was enthusiastic, with residents trying the machines themselves and learning that the deposit paid when purchasing a beverage is fully refunded when the empty container is brought back. The people also enquired about the QR codes, collection and transportation of the waste collected by the RVM among other queries during these sessions, which were answered during the live demonstration.
“The installation of the DRS machine is an important step towards addressing the waste management challenges faced by our village. By encouraging the return of used beverage containers, we can reduce litter, support cleanliness efforts, and contribute to the vision of a cleaner and more sustainable Goa. I urge all residents to actively participate and make this initiative a success.” said, Vilas Morje, Sarpanch, Morjim Panchayat
“We will be getting an RVM installed at our panchayat, which will help us keep Velguem village clean. This scheme will benefit the masses as well, since they will get their deposit back on responsible disposal. I would request everyone to make use of the machine and return their packaging waste through it.” said, Yogita Haldankar, Sarpanch, Velguem Panchayat
Goa DRS covers PET bottles, glass bottles, aluminium cans, and multi-layered packaging, blending technology with behavioural incentives to boost recovery rates and keep public spaces clean.
DRS machines are currently being installed at convenient, high-footfall locations across the state. Phase I of the scheme is set to launch with Alcoholic Beverages, though an official date is yet to be confirmed.
Photo caption 1: Residents and local leaders of Poinguinim Panchayat experience a Reverse Vending Machine under Goa Deposit Refund Scheme.
Image 2: Parra Sarpanch Daniel Lobo along with the residents engaged at a live demonstration of a Reverse Vending Machine under the Goa Deposit Refund Scheme.
Photo caption : Locals at Assagao witness the live demonstration of a Reverse Vending Machine under Goa Deposit Refund Scheme.
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