Excelsior Correspondent
VIJAYPUR, Apr 14: In a major step towards sustainability, the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jammu has banned the use of plastic water bottles across its campus.
A statement said that the move aimed to make the institute a plastic-free zone and promote eco-friendly practices.
It said that the initiative was launched under the leadership of Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director & CEO, as part of the Swachhta Pakhwada celebrations.
“It aligns with national campaigns such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Mission LiFE, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which promote environmental responsibility and sustainable living,” the statement said.
It said that the ban covers all areas of the campus, including meetings, conferences, seminars, and institutional events. It also applies to programs involving external visitors, the statement said.
To support the shift, the statement further said that AIIMS Jammu is offering sustainable alternatives. While glass bottles will be used for guests, staff, students and faculty are encouraged to use steel or copper bottles.
Further, water dispensers with biodegradable cups are also being installed across the campus, and traditional clay pots (matkas) will be used in open spaces.
Prof (Dr) Shakti Gupta, Executive Director & CEO, AIIMS Jammu, emphasized the role of healthcare institutions in setting an example.
“We are responsible not just for human health, but also for the health of the environment,” he said.
Dr Gupta said that Col Sanjay Garg, Deputy Director (Administration), will oversee the implementation of the initiative. He will coordinate with all the departments to ensure smooth adoption, from logistics to awareness drives.
“Our efforts reflect the vision of Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, who has stressed the need to integrate sustainability into healthcare governance,” Dr Gupta said.
“This is not just a rule-it’s a movement,” he said, adding, “We hope to inspire other institutions to follow suit.”
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