New Delhi, April 7 -- The government is working on an ambitious plan to encourage consumer goods makers to use biodegradable sachets to reduce plastic litter, curb soil pollution, and prevent drain blockages.

The Department of Consumer Affairs' plan involves transitioning a wide range of sachet-based products to eco-friendly packaging by developing plastic-free, biodegradable alternatives for one of the most widely used packaging formats in the country, two people aware of the matter said.

"The plan involves engaging all stakeholders and encouraging them to adopt it step by step, starting with a few products on a pilot basis," said the first of the two persons cited earlier, both of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity.

"To start w...