Patna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appreciation of Bihar’s plastic waste management initiatives has prompted the state govt to explore replicating the successful Sitamarhi and Siwan models across the state, officials said on Friday.The proposal was discussed at a state-level workshop on plastic waste management organised by the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin)/Lohiya Swachh Bihar Abhiyan under the rural development department. Entrepreneurs, recyclers, scrap dealers, district officials and technical experts deliberated on expanding successful models to strengthen rural recycling.The Sitamarhi initiative, praised by the Prime Minister during a recent ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, converts single-use plastic into products such as benches and tables. Rai Industries managing director Sanjeet Rai explained the technology behind the initiative.Officials said the Siwan “Kabad Mandi” model, which uses digital platforms for doorstep scrap collection, scientific segregation and processing, could help create a sustainable rural recycling ecosystem. Models from Supaul, Aurangabad and Buxar were also discussed.Mission director, Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), Himanshu Sharma said the govt would support innovative agencies and explore financial assistance through the Innovation Fund to expand recycling capacity and promote value-added products.The workshop also discussed microplastic pollution, recycling technologies, regulatory issues and livelihood opportunities. Representatives of the Bihar State Pollution Control Board, CIPET, Unicef, WaterAid and Water For People attended the event.
