Hiroshi Suzuki, the Ambassador of Japan to India, emphasized the critical role of the new recycling initiative in fostering a circular economy within India and addressing climate change challenges. He lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, specifically pointing to Mission LIFE’s efforts in reducing the nation's carbon footprint. This mission focuses on minimizing single-use plastic and enhancing the recycling of used plastics, aligning seamlessly with the objectives of this project with JIT.

Ambassador Suzuki also highlighted Japan’s commitment to environmental sustainability, noting that Japan has enacted legislation aimed at doubling its recycling rates by 2030. He praised the collaborative efforts of India and Japan in this global environmental endeavor.

Mr. Sibi George, the Ambassador of India to Japan, also shared his video message in which he emphasized the importance of addressing small items that accumulate into significant environmental waste in our fast-paced world. He highlighted that this initiative will help solve this problem and move towards a circular economy. Mr. George remarked that this effort exemplifies how Japan and India can come together for the greater good. He also expressed his belief that this initiative will grow significantly in India and will serve as a model for others.

Mr. Anuj Dayal, the Principal Executive Director of DMRC, expressed his appreciation for Japan's partnership in bringing this eco-friendly initiative to India, starting with the Delhi Metro. He underscored the proactive steps being taken by DMRC towards sustainability, which include the installation of recycling boxes at Hauz Khas and fourteen other metro stations. He stressed the significance of fostering environmental awareness among commuters and highlighted DMRC's long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship. This includes their initiative of planting ten trees for every tree removed during construction. Additionally, he pointed out that Metro Bhawan, their corporate headquarters, has achieved the status of a carbon-neutral building, further solidifying their dedication to sustainable practices.

Mr. Tomohiro Arima, Senior Representative of JICA India Office, congratulated JIT and DMRC on the successful setup of recycling boxes for used ink bottles at 15 metro stations. Supported by JICA under the SDGs Business Validation Survey, this initiative showcases the shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. Mr. Arima highlighted the longstanding Japan-India collaboration in the metro field and emphasized the importance of recycling in reducing our carbon footprint and conserving resources. He praised JIT's advanced technologies in producing high-quality recycled products and fostering citizen participation to reduce plastic waste. Describing the initiative as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation, he expressed gratitude to all contributors and confidence in achieving and exceeding the project's goals for a sustainable future.

From left to right:
Mr. Naveen Seth, Deputy Secretary General, PHDCCI
Mr. Masato Ishizaka, Chairman of JIT Inc.
Mr. Hiroshi Suzuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to India
Mr. Ranjeet Mehta, Executive Director, PHDCCI
Mr. Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director, DMRC
Mr. Tomohiro Arima, Senior Representative, JICA India Office