Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Goa government has extended the registration deadline for Producers, Importers, and Brand Owners (PIBOs) under the upcoming Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS) to March 15, following slow compliance and growing apprehension from certain industry segments.
The original deadline of February 28 was missed by several manufacturers and traders, prompting authorities to allow additional time to complete the mandatory registration process. The DRS, scheduled to take effect from April 1, aims to regulate the collection and refund of deposits on non-biodegradable beverage containers, including glass bottles, cans, and certain types of plastic packaging. PIBOs will be required to register with the designated authority and adhere to the scheme’s collection and refund protocols.
Officials said the extension is meant to ease onboarding and encourage broader participation. However, industry insiders suggest the move highlights underlying operational challenges in implementing the framework. “The slower response is largely due to stakeholders seeking clarity on compliance procedures, financial obligations, and the tax treatment of refundable deposits,” said a senior official involved with the rollout. “This extension ensures that no eligible entity is excluded.”
Some traders, however, interpret the delay as indicative of hurdles in the scheme’s rollout. “If the system were fully prepared, registrations would have been completed on time,” said a manufacturer requesting anonymity. “Smaller players, in particular, are unsure about documentation requirements and how the deposit system will impact their finances.”
The government has faced criticism from parts of the liquor and beverage industry, with concerns raised over the legal and logistical structure of the DRS. Questions have also emerged about whether the refundable deposit could complicate pricing strategies and compliance filings.
Despite these challenges, officials have confirmed that the scheme’s April 1 launch will proceed as planned. Authorities are intensifying awareness campaigns and stakeholder consultations to address concerns and streamline the registration process.
