Ministry of Tourism Hosts Award Ceremony and Exhibition for Eco-Friendly Cutlery and Crockery Design Challenge

New Delhi: The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the National Council for Hotel Management & Catering Technology (NCHMCT), hosted an award ceremony and exhibition for the winners of the ‘Design Challenge: Eco-Friendly Cutlery and Crockery to Substitute Single-Use Plastic’ on March 14th, 2024. Chaired by D.G. (Tourism), Ms. Manisha Saxena, and graced by esteemed guests including Senior Economic Advisor Mr. Gyan Bhushan, renowned chefs Manjit Singh Gill and Gunjan Goela, the event celebrated innovative solutions aimed at combating single-use plastic.

The Design Challenge, conducted nationwide, witnessed participation from 22 Hotel Management Institutes. Out of these, the top seven institutes were selected based on their innovative designs and development of edible cutlery and crockery options. Institutions such as SIHM Indore, IHM Lucknow, IHM Raipur, SIHM Ranchi, IHM Mumbai, IHM Gurdaspur, and Dr. Ambedkar Hotel Management Institute Chandigarh showcased their biodegradable and attractive designs.

Among the top-ranked institutions, IHM Mumbai secured the first position, followed by SIHM Raipur in second place, and IHM Lucknow in third place. The designs were evaluated on parameters such as durability, cost-effectiveness, scalability, nutritional value, and hygiene standards, reflecting a comprehensive approach towards eco-friendly alternatives.

Aligned with the Travel for LiFE initiative under Mission LiFE, the Design Challenge advocates for sustainable tourism practices, particularly advocating for the reduction of single-use plastic. The initiative aims to safeguard the environment from the adverse effects of climate change while fostering innovation in the field of cutlery and crockery.

During the event, an information booklet detailing the Design Challenge was released, providing insights into the innovative solutions developed by participating institutes. A panel discussion was also held, focusing on the strengths and challenges of implementing eco-friendly practices in the hospitality sector. The initiative not only promotes sustainability but also creates employment opportunities for stakeholders involved in the production and usage of eco-friendly alternatives.

The Ministry of Tourism’s initiative underscores its commitment to promoting sustainable tourism practices and fostering innovation in the hospitality sector, contributing to the nation’s efforts towards a greener and more eco-conscious future.