The Hindu Business Line : Bengal likely to ban use of plastic bags

THE West Bengal Government is considering banning the use of plastic bags throughout the State. The objective is to ensure that such a non-biodegradable product does not pollute the environment.

This was announced by the West Bengal Chief Minister, Mr Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, while inaugurating the 19th industrial India trade fair here on Wednesday.

He advised business establishments to replace the use of plastic bags by jute bags. He said jute mills had to diversify their products as conventional jute products have limitation to maximise their use. Moreover, diversification of jute products is required in the long-term interest of the industry, on which the livelihood of thousands of farmers depends.

The Chief Minister said, "We don't want globalisation at the cost of the common man's interests. We also don't need any foreign investments in retail business."

He felt that domestic business houses were competent to develop retail trade. However, the State is ready to welcome foreign direct investment in sectors such as infrastructure, agro-processing, horticulture, IT and downstream projects on petroleum products.

He said that China, for the first time, has come out with an investment proposal for setting up a Greenfield power project in the State. The proposed project would be set up in Murshidabad district, while Jurong Township Company of Singapore has decided to set up a logistic hub in Howrah.

The fair — the second largest industrial fair in the country — is being organised by the Bengal National Chamber of Commerce & Industry in association with the State Government and the India Trade Promotion Organisation.

A total of 11 countries, including Egypt and Afghanistan are participating the fair where about 800 exhibits are being displaced. This year, Singapore is the focus country. The fair will remain open till December 31.