Kolkata, October 16, 2026

 

 The National Jute Board (NJB), under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, is promoting the use of jute in Durga Puja pandals across West Bengal, placing sustainability at the heart of the state's most celebrated cultural festival.
To promote jute-based products, NJB has facilitated the establishment of 15 dedicated jute diversified product (JDP) stalls across selected Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata. These stalls showcase a wide range of innovative jute products and applications, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the versatility, utility and sustainability of jute and its diversified products. Jute has been used in pandal decoration, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional decorative materials. From thematic installations and wall coverings to intricate ornamental elements, the use of jute brings together traditional craftsmanship, creative expression and environmental consciousness, while highlighting the immense potential of this natural fibre in contemporary applications. The stalls are expected to serve as an important platform for increasing consumer awareness and encouraging the adoption of jute-based products in everyday life.
Recognising the efforts of puja organisers who champion this green initiative, NJB is organising the "Eco-friendly Durga Puja Pandals with Jute Contest 2026" to encourage innovative and extensive use of jute in pandal decoration. Participating committees are required to prominently incorporate jute fabric, jute yarn, jute fibre or a combination thereof in their decorative installations. Participating pandals will be evaluated on the quantum of jute used as well as the artistic appeal, innovation and creativity of the overall design. The awards include a first prize of ₹1.50 lakh, a second prize of ₹1 lakh, a third prize of ₹75,000, and five consolation prizes of ₹25,000 each. The initiative seeks to encourage friendly competition among puja committees while demonstrating the diverse possibilities of sustainable design using natural fibres.
Jute, a biodegradable, renewable and recyclable natural fibre, offers a sustainable alternative to several synthetic materials commonly used in festive decorations. Its use can help reduce dependence on plastic-based and other non-biodegradable materials, thereby minimising waste and the environmental impact of large-scale celebrations.
Durga Puja is not only one of West Bengal's most celebrated cultural occasions but also a powerful platform for artistic innovation and community participation. Integrating jute into pandal design presents an opportunity to make environmental responsibility an integral part of the festivities while creating greater awareness about the importance of sustainable materials. It also offers a platform to highlight the skills of artisans and the value of a fibre that supports livelihoods across the jute value chain. The growing use of jute in creative applications such as festival décor also contributes to generating demand for diversified jute products, thereby creating new opportunities for artisans, designers and enterprises associated with the sector.
Through this initiative, NJB and the Government of India reaffirm their commitment to strengthening the use of jute in everyday life and expanding its applications beyond conventional products.

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