Context: The Rudraprayag district administration has launched the ‘Carry Me Back’ Policy at Kedarnath to tackle the growing waste burden caused by record pilgrim footfall during the Char Dham Yatra.
About Carry Me Back Policy:
What It Is?
- The ‘Carry Me Back’ Policy is an innovative community-driven waste management initiative launched at Kedarnath under the leadership of the Kedarnath Nagar Panchayat, in collaboration with the Healing Himalayas Foundation and Sulabh International.
Aim:
- To minimize plastic and dry waste accumulation around the sacred shrine and preserve its ecological integrity.
- To transform pilgrims into active stakeholders in environmental conservation through public participation.
Key Features:
- Waste Collection Bags for Pilgrims: Pilgrims receive specially designed bags capable of carrying 400–500 grams of dry waste during their stay.
- Reverse Waste Transportation Model: Devotees are encouraged to bring collected waste back to Gaurikund, reducing disposal challenges at high altitudes.
- Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Healing Himalayas Foundation distributes bags, Sulabh International ensures scientific disposal, and Nagar Panchayat oversees implementation.
- Green Pilgrimage Framework: Integrates environmental stewardship into religious tourism and promotes sustainable pilgrimage practices.
Significance:
- Reduces plastic pollution and ecological degradation in one of India’s most environmentally sensitive mountain regions.
- Demonstrates how citizen participation can balance increasing pilgrimage tourism with long-term environmental conservation.
Relevance in UPSC Examination
- GS Paper II (Governance):
- Highlights Jan Bhagidari in achieving governance and environmental goals.
- Showcases the role of Nagar Panchayats and district administration in service delivery.
- GS Paper III (Environment):
- Balances religious tourism with conservation of fragile Himalayan ecosystems.
- Demonstrates innovative solid-waste management in ecologically sensitive regions.
- GS Paper IV (Ethics):
- Promotes responsibility towards conserving natural resources and public spaces.
- Encourages public participation, accountability, and collective responsibility.
