Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS) Authority, in coordination with the State Excise Department, is working on a unified QR framework and a transition mechanism to facilitate the smooth implementation of the scheme from April 1, 2027.
More than 1,600 hotels, restaurants, cafés and other HoReCa establishments have already registered under the DRS, with the authority continuing its onboarding drive ahead of the upcoming tourist season.
The proposed framework is aimed at simplifying QR-based compliance for stakeholders by moving towards a single QR requirement instead of separate QR systems. The DRS Authority and Excise Department are working together to ensure manufacturers, distributors, retailers and HoReCa establishments can adapt to the new system without disruption.
DRS Authority Chairman Dr Anthony de Sa said the transition period is being utilised to establish a streamlined implementation mechanism and make the process easier for stakeholders.
The authority has advised HoReCa establishments to complete their registration and onboarding before the November pre-season period. Early onboarding will enable eligible establishments to access app-based collection services for bulk waste directly from their premises once the scheme becomes operational.
Brands and manufacturers have also been advised to complete registration by January 2027 to provide sufficient time for QR code trials and system testing.
According to the DRS Authority, the subsequent months will be used for alignment with scheme requirements and a full simulation exercise before the March rollout preparations are completed.
The government said the Deposit Refund Scheme is intended to strengthen waste management and resource recovery while protecting consumer interests and making compliance more convenient for businesses and trade.
Authorities said the transition and onboarding process will continue in the coming months to ensure a smooth implementation of Phase I of the Goa DRS from April 2027.
