Karnataka has now made it law to stop all plastic use in its state-run temples, a big move to make sacred places cleaner and greener. From today, visitors and vendors cannot bring or use plastic bags, bottles, or any plastic food items inside temple grounds across the state. This strict new rule is part of a bigger plan by the government to fight plastic waste and help the environment. With millions of people visiting these holy sites every year, this ban aims to keep Karnataka’s crucial spiritual spots pure and free from harmful plastic trash, forcing a quick change in how pilgrims prepare for their visits.
New Rule for Temples Starts Now
The Karnataka government has put a complete ban on all types of plastic in temples managed by the state. This new rule started on August 15, 2025. It means that no plastic items like bags, water bottles, or covers for offerings can be used inside these holy places. The aim of this decision is to make religious sites cleaner and to protect the environment. This step is part of a bigger plan by the state to reduce plastic waste across Karnataka. Revenue Minister and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy made the announcement. He confirmed that strict measures are now in place to make sure the ban is followed. Over 34,000 temples across Karnataka, including those in Bengaluru, come under the Muzrai Department and are now part of this ban.
Why This Ban Is vital
Plastic waste is a major problem. temples, with many visitors, are no different. Thousands of people visit these temples every day, especially during religious festivals and special events. They often bring plastic bags for items like flowers and other offerings. Plastic bottles for water and plastic containers for Prasad (holy food) are also commonly used. This creates a large amount of waste that harms the environment. It pollutes the land and water bodies near these sacred sites. The government wants to keep holy places clean and also protect nature. The ban will help make these temples free from plastic. This move is also part of the state’s wider efforts to manage waste better. While there have been past efforts to control plastic, this new rule is a strong step specifically for temples. The goal is to improve environmental responsibility in places of worship. Reports show that many scenic routes leading to temples were often filled with discarded plastic, which harmed nature and wildlife.
What Changes for Temples and Visitors
With this new rule, temple managers must stop giving out or selling anything made of plastic. This includes small plastic bags used for flowers, Prasad sachets, plastic water bottles. plastic packaging for kumkum or other religious offerings. Visitors are also expected to stop bringing plastic items into the temple grounds. Instead, temples will encourage people to use items made from natural materials. For example, visitors can use cloth bags, reusable baskets, or steel containers for their offerings. Temples might also set up places for people to fill their own reusable water bottles. This means a big change for how temples operate and how visitors act when they come for prayers. The aim is to create a more natural and peaceful environment for everyone who visits.
- No plastic bags for offerings.
- No plastic water bottles inside temple areas.
- No plastic covers for Prasad or other items.
- Using cloth bags and reusable containers is encouraged.
The ban specifically targets single-use plastic materials within the temple premises.
How the Rule Will Be Carried Out
The Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Department, also known as the Muzrai Department, is responsible for making sure this ban is followed. They will work with temple committees and local groups to put the new rules into practice. Temple staff will tell visitors about the ban. signs will be put up to remind people. Officials have been told to strictly enforce the ban. If people do not follow the rules, fines will be imposed. In serious cases, criminal charges might be filed against those found using plastic products within temple areas. Enforcement teams will keep an eye on things to ensure people are following the new rules. The department has given temples a two-month period to get rid of any plastic items they already have. To help temples manage waste better, a special unit has been set up. In the first phase, 25 temples have been chosen to have units for handling solid and liquid waste. Experts will help these temples dispose of waste in a scientific way. This shows a strong effort to manage temple waste, which can be up to three tonnes a day at some big temples.
What People Are Saying
The new plastic ban has received different kinds of reactions from people. Many environmental groups have welcomed this step. They say it is an essential move to protect nature and keep holy places clean. This initiative is seen as a way to significantly reduce plastic waste from religious activities.
“This is a great move. Temples generate a lot of waste. Banning plastic will help protect our environment and promote cleaner worship places.” – Statement from an environmental group leader.
Temple authorities generally support the ban. They comprehend that clean temples are essential. But, some have shared concerns about finding enough natural items to replace plastic and the cost of these new items.
“We support the ban for a cleaner environment. Our main concern is finding enough affordable, eco-friendly options for all our needs. We need proper support to make this change smooth.” – A temple managing committee member.
Devotees have mixed feelings about the ban. Many are ready to follow the new rules because they see the benefit of cleaner temples. But, some, especially those who travel from far away, might find it a little hard at first to carry reusable items.
“It’s a good idea for the environment. I will carry my own cloth bag from now on. It might take some getting used to. it’s for a good cause.” – A regular temple visitor.
Overall, while the idea of a plastic-free environment is accepted, making it happen smoothly will need a lot of effort and good planning from the government and temple management, as well as cooperation from visitors.
Next Steps for the State
This plastic ban in temples is an vital part of Karnataka’s bigger plan to deal with plastic pollution. The state government has been working to reduce single-use plastics for some time. This new rule for temples is a significant part of that effort. It shows the government’s strong will to make public places cleaner and more friendly to nature. The success of this ban in temples could help the state make similar rules in other public areas. It also encourages people to think more about how they use plastic in their daily lives. This move by Karnataka could become an example for other states in India to follow, helping to create a cleaner and greener future for everyone. The state is also looking at new materials, like starch-based items, as future alternatives to plastic. 
