Home / Environment / Goa Cracks Down: PoP Idol Makers Must Register
Goa Cracks Down: PoP Idol Makers Must Register
11 Sep
Summary
- Goa mandates registration for all PoP idol makers and sellers.
- Artisans cite demand, cost, and convenience driving PoP idol sales.
- Fines up to Rs 50,000 imposed for violations.
For the first time, Goa's pollution control board requires mandatory registration for plaster of Paris (PoP) idol makers and sellers. This move aims to systematically control the sale of PoP idols ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi. Traditional clay idol artisans report that a gap between idol demand and supply, coupled with the convenience and lower cost of PoP idols, drives their market presence.
In response, 457 registrations have occurred on the GSPCB portal, including 'chitrashalas,' distributors, and stockists, projecting sales of over 60,000 idols. However, artisans note challenges such as labor shortages and increasing raw material costs for traditional clay idols. Concerns remain that demand might outstrip local clay idol production, especially with stricter enforcement against PoP imports.
The state has increased the permissible PoP content in idols to 20% and raised fines for violations to up to Rs 50,000. Environment officials are conducting joint inspections and sample analyses to prevent PoP idols from entering the market. Non-registered vendors face late registration fees and potential disposal costs for non-compliant idols.
