ஈராயிரம் ஆண்டுகள் அடக்கப்பட்ட இனத்தின் மான உணர்ச்சியைத் தட்டியெழுப்பி, சுயமரியாதை ஒன்றே அடிமை விலங்கைத் தகர்த்தெறியும் வழி எனத் தொண்டாற்றிய தந்தை...

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched Meendum Manjappai, a statewide public awareness campaign designed as a grassroots people's movement to eradicate single-use plastics and restore environmental sustainability across Tamil Nadu. Unveiling the iconic yellow cloth bag in Chennai, Stalin stressed that the traditional manjappai is not merely a utilitarian sack, but an enduring cultural symbol of ecological responsibility and sensible living. He called upon citizens to abandon non-biodegradable plastic carry bags that pollute water bodies, choke urban stormwater drains, and endanger marine and terrestrial wildlife.

The campaign integrates public education, strict regulatory enforcement against banned single-use plastics, and financial incentives for self-help groups and cooperative societies producing natural fiber alternatives. Stalin distributed automated manjappai vending kiosks and encouraged commercial vendors, grocery stores, and consumers to adopt reusable bags proudly. He observed that consumer behaviour change is indispensable for meaningful ecological protection.

Stalin asserted that creating a clean, plastic-free Tamil Nadu requires collective civic pride and personal discipline from every citizen. By revitalizing a cherished cultural practice for modern environmental conservation, Stalin demonstrated creative eco-friendly governance, inspiring communities to embrace sustainable daily habits.