Pollution Control Board begins tender process for vending machines and reusable cloth bags at 105 locations across the state
Chennai, Sept 2026 : Tamil Nadu’s initiative to promote reusable cloth bags is set to continue under a new name, with the previous DMK government’s “Meendum Manjappai” campaign being carried forward as the “Thunippai Scheme”.
The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has initiated steps to invite tenders for the installation of vending machines and supply of cloth bags as part of the first phase of the renamed programme. The proposed rollout will cover 105 locations across the state.
Under the tender process, agencies will be selected to install and operate the vending machines and ensure the supply of cloth bags required to keep them functional. The move signals the continuation of the campaign following uncertainty over its future and funding after the change in government.
“Meendum Manjappai”, which translates to “Return to the Yellow Bag”, was launched in December 2021 with the objective of encouraging people to use reusable bags instead of single-use plastic carry bags. Yellow-coloured cloth bags were made available through vending machines installed at public locations, with the bags initially priced at Rs 10 each.
The initiative was part of Tamil Nadu’s broader efforts to reduce plastic pollution and encourage alternatives to disposable plastic products. In 2019, the then AIADMK government had imposed restrictions on several single-use plastic products, including plastic carry bags. The cloth bag campaign was subsequently aimed at making reusable alternatives easily accessible to consumers.
With the change in government, there had been questions over whether the programme would continue and receive administrative and financial support. The decision to proceed with the Thunippai Scheme indicates that the vending-machine model for distributing reusable bags will remain in place, although the earlier “Manjappai” branding will no longer be used.
The first phase of the renamed programme is expected to provide a framework for its implementation across the identified locations. The TNPCB has begun the procurement process for vending machines and cloth bags, with 105 sites included in the initial rollout.
However, details regarding the exact locations, the number of vending machines and bags to be supplied, and the schedule for installation have not been specified so far.
For consumers, the key feature of the programme will remain access to affordable reusable bags at public places. The broader objective is to reduce dependence on single-use plastic bags by providing a convenient alternative for everyday shopping.
The effectiveness of the initiative will depend on factors including the accessibility of the vending machines, regular availability of cloth bags and their affordability for consumers. The proposed tender marks the next administrative step, with installation expected to begin after completion of the procurement process.
