Chloe Zhang
India has banned the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of identified single-use plastic items, which have low utility and high littering potential. This ban came into effect on July 1, 2022, and includes plastic bags with a thickness of less than 120 microns. However, plastic bags thicker than 120 microns are allowed in India. When travelling to India, it is important to note that there are restrictions on the type and quantity of liquids, electronics, and powders that can be brought into the country. Plastic bags may be used to carry liquids during travel, but they must be clear and resealable, and each liquid item must not exceed 100 ml.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bags with a thickness of less than 75 microns | Banned from manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use from 30 September 2021 |
| Plastic bags with a thickness of less than 120 microns | Banned from manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use from 31 December 2022 |
| Plastic bags with a thickness of 120 microns or more | Allowed |
| Plastic bags for liquids in hand luggage | Allowed, but must be transparent, closed, and have a total volume of up to 1 litre |
| Plastic bags for spare batteries | Allowed, but each battery must be packed separately and the contact points must be covered with non-conductive tape |
| Plastic bags for duty-free items | Allowed, but must be removed from the plastic bag before boarding the flight |
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What You'll Learn
India's single-use plastic ban
India has a crisis on its hands when it comes to single-use plastics. The country ranked third globally, contributing 5.5 million tonnes of single-use plastic waste, and ranked ninety-fourth with per capita single-use plastic waste of 4 kg per year. India's Reliance Industries, which produces 3 million tonnes of single-use plastic waste, is the eighth largest producer of polymers. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) revealed that India mismanages 85% of its plastic waste.
In light of this, India banned the manufacture, distribution, stocking, sale and use of 19 single-use plastic items, effective from 1 July 2022. The ban covered items like plastic cutlery, straws, sticks and decorative thermocol, while some items like carry bags and banners were regulated by thickness—120 microns and 100 microns, respectively.
However, over a year after the ban came into force, single-use plastic items are still being sold and used in the country. Enforcement campaigns have found non-compliance with the ban in commercial establishments, including small shops in local markets. Carry bags (below 120 microns) continue to be the most widely circulated banned single-use plastic item, making up almost a third of all banned single-use plastics.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued directions to 18 plastic raw-material manufacturers, nine sellers of single-use plastics and 30 e-commerce companies for phasing out single-use plastics. Additionally, letters were sent to all State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs), Chief Secretaries of all the states, and customs authorities (for regulating/stopping imports).
Some Indian states have taken matters into their own hands. The Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, for example, has completely banned the production, distribution, storage and use of carry bags through its Non-biodegradable Garbage Control Act of 1998. This has been successfully implemented at scale in the entire state.
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Plastic bags in hand luggage
When packing plastic bags in hand luggage for a flight to India, it is important to follow the guidelines provided by the airline and the destination country. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations:
- Allowed Plastic Bags in Hand Luggage: Most airlines, such as Air India and IndiGo, allow passengers to carry plastic bags in their hand luggage. These bags are typically used to store specific items that are subject to security screening and volume restrictions. For example, liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, lotions, and other similar items must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre. This includes beverages, shampoos, cosmetics, and other liquid or gel-like items. Keep in mind that the containers should fit comfortably and completely within the plastic bag.
- Medication and Valuables: Airlines like IndiGo recommend that medication, valuables, fragile items, perishable items, and precious items (such as cameras, jewellery, money, and electronics) should be carried in hand luggage or cabin baggage. This helps ensure their safety and timely delivery upon arrival at your destination.
- Restricted and Prohibited Items: It is essential to be aware of restricted and prohibited items that cannot be carried in hand luggage. This includes hazardous, unsafe, or prohibited items such as explosives, flammable liquids, and sharp objects. Additionally, certain countries may have specific restrictions. For example, when travelling to Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda, plastic bags are not allowed upon entry into the country.
- Battery Restrictions: Spare batteries, including lithium-ion batteries, must be carried in hand luggage. However, e-cigarettes and e-cigarette accessories are prohibited on flights to and from India. When carrying spare batteries, cover the contact points with non-conductive tape and place each battery in a separate plastic bag.
- Hand Luggage Allowance: Passengers are typically allowed one piece of hand baggage and one additional small personal item, such as a handbag or a laptop bag. However, the specific dimensions and weight restrictions may vary depending on the airline and the class of travel. Any baggage exceeding the allowed size or weight limit will need to be checked in, and additional charges may apply.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic beverages are generally permitted in hand luggage when purchased from the Airport Security Hold Area. They must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre. However, when transferring from international to domestic flights, alcoholic beverages may not be allowed as cabin baggage.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your plastic bags in hand luggage comply with the regulations for your flight to India. It is always advisable to check the latest information provided by the airline and the destination country's regulations to avoid any issues during your travel.
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Plastic bags for liquids
Plastic bags are allowed in India, but there are some restrictions on their use and specific guidelines for carrying liquids in plastic bags.
Firstly, when packing liquids in your luggage to travel to India, it is important to follow the guidelines set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the respective airline you are travelling with. Most airlines, such as KLM India, adhere to the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-on baggage. According to this rule, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 millilitres, and they must all fit in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre or quart. This bag should be closed or securely sealed.
It is recommended that any liquids over 100ml or 3.4 ounces be packed in your checked baggage. This includes items such as shampoo, liquid deodorant, makeup, and other gels or liquids. You are allowed to bring liquid medications, baby food, and special diet foods that you may need during the flight in your carry-on baggage.
Additionally, when it comes to plastic bags in general, while they are not prohibited in India, it is advisable to avoid using single-use plastic bags and opt for more sustainable alternatives. Some Indian states, such as Maharashtra, have implemented bans or restrictions on certain types of plastic bags to reduce plastic waste and encourage the use of eco-friendly alternatives. These regulations may vary from state to state, so it is always a good idea to check the local guidelines of your destination.
Furthermore, when travelling with plastic bags, it is recommended to keep them inside your checked baggage rather than in your hand luggage. This is because some countries have specific restrictions on carrying plastic bags in the cabin. For example, when flying to Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda, you are not allowed to have any plastic bags with you when entering the country.
In summary, when travelling to India, ensure that your liquids adhere to the TSA and airline guidelines, and consider using reusable or eco-friendly alternatives to plastic bags whenever possible.
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Plastic bags and multilayered packaging thickness
India has implemented several measures to manage plastic waste and promote environmentally sustainable practices. These include the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, which aim to regulate the use and disposal of plastic carry bags and multilayered packaging.
As part of these efforts, new regulations were announced mandating that all plastic carry bags and multilayered packaging in India must display specific information, including thickness and manufacturer details, via barcodes or QR codes, effective from July 1, 2025. This applies to both domestically produced and imported plastic packaging.
The thickness requirement specifically prohibits the use of plastic bags with a thickness of less than 120 microns, which was enforced from December 31, 2022. This thickness threshold is crucial as it helps distinguish between single-use plastic bags, which have low utility and high littering potential, and more durable plastic products.
The new rules ensure strict monitoring of plastic bags' thickness and promote sustainable packaging practices. By scanning the barcode or QR code, consumers and authorities can access essential information about the product, enhancing transparency and accountability in the plastic industry. This also enables effective monitoring of plastic usage and facilitates the identification of non-compliant products.
In conclusion, India's mandate for barcodes or QR codes on plastic carry bags and multilayered packaging, including thickness details, is a significant step towards environmental sustainability. These regulations enhance traceability, enforce bans on thin plastics, and promote responsible practices in the plastic industry. The consequences for non-compliance can be severe, including imprisonment and hefty fines, reflecting the country's commitment to reducing plastic waste's impact on the environment.
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Plastic bags and travelling to/from India
India has strict rules regarding plastic bags, owing to its commitment to reducing plastic pollution. The manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of identified single-use plastic items were banned in the country from July 1, 2022. This includes plastic carry bags with a thickness of less than 120 microns, which were prohibited from December 31, 2022.
When travelling to India, it is advisable to avoid carrying plastic bags with you, especially in your hand luggage. Some sources suggest that you should take a reusable carry bag with you when travelling to India, as small vendors may not have alternatives readily available. However, it is unclear whether this refers to international travellers or domestic travellers.
If you are travelling with liquids, you can carry them in small containers (up to 100ml per item) in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a total volume of up to 1 litre. This applies to liquids such as shampoo, liquid deodorant, makeup, and other toiletries. Any liquids purchased at duty-free can be carried in a Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB).
When packing electronic devices, each spare battery should be packed separately in its original packaging. If you no longer have the original packaging, cover the contact points with non-conductive tape and place each battery in a separate plastic bag.
It is important to check the specific guidelines provided by your chosen airline, as well as the regulations of any countries you may be transiting through, to ensure you are compliant with all relevant rules.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it is recommended to put them in your cargo rather than your hand luggage.
India has banned the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of identified single-use plastic items with low utility and high littering potential. This includes plastic carry bags under 120 microns in thickness.
Violations of the ban may result in imprisonment, hefty fines, or both under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Liquids up to 100ml can be carried in a transparent, resealable plastic bag.
