PATNA, June 21 -- The Bihar state branch of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has directed its local units across the state to promote plastic-free practices in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, pharmacies and medical stores, citing growing environmental and public health concerns arising from the use of single-use plastic bags. In a circular issued on Saturday, IMA Bihar said medicines and healthcare-related items are frequently dispensed in single-use plastic bags, contributing significantly to environmental pollution and increasing pressure on waste management systems. The association also warned that plastic waste and microplastics pose risks to ecosystems and human health. The IMA headquarters has urged all state branches to take proactive measures to reduce plastic use in healthcare settings. Accordingly, IMA Bihar has asked its local branches to encourage healthcare institutions to gradually eliminate single-use plastic bags and adopt eco-friendly alternatives....