Kolkata, October 16, 2026

 

As part of a series of initiatives to promote jute diversified products (JDPs) at Durga Puja 2026 by National Jute Board (NJB), under the Union Ministry of Textiles, Smt. Vrunda M. Desai, Textile Commissioner and Jute Commissioner; and Shri Shashi Bhushan Singh, Secretary, NJB, inaugurated the Durga Puja pandal ‘Onno Pujo’ at Offbeat CCU, Topsia Road, Kolkata on Friday. The initiative highlights the growing use of jute in festive decorations, combining traditional craftsmanship, creative expression and environmental responsibility.

NJB has facilitated the setting up of 15 JDP stalls at Durga Puja pandals across Kolkata to showcase and promote innovative jute products. The stalls aim to raise consumer awareness about the versatility of jute and encourage its use in everyday life.

 

Separately, NJB is organising the ‘Eco-friendly Durga Puja Pandals with Jute Contest 2026’ to encourage innovative and extensive use of jute fabric, yarn and fibre in pandal decorations. The contest has received 10 responses from Puja committees across Kolkata.

 

The participating committees are:

 

- Belghachia (Kendriya) Sarbojanin Durgotsav Committee

- Lalabagan Nabankur

- Tala Barowari Durgotsab Samity

- Maniktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty Durga Puja Committee

- Onno Pujo

- Sahid Nagar Sarbojanin Durgotsab

- Bankey Behari Enterprise

- Sahapur Suhrid Sangha

- Biren Roy Road Loona 7 Star

- Barisha Club

 

Participating pandals will be evaluated on the quantity of jute used, artistic appeal, innovation and creativity of the overall design. An evaluation committee constituted by NJB will inspect the pandals, and selected committees will be required to provide evidence of the quantity of jute used.

 

The awards comprise a first prize of ₹1.5 lakh, second prize of ₹1 lakh, third prize of ₹75,000, and five consolation prizes of ₹25,000 each. The contest seeks to encourage friendly competition among puja committees and demonstrate the diverse possibilities of sustainable design using natural fibres.

 

Jute, a biodegradable, renewable and recyclable natural fibre, offers an alternative to synthetic and plastic-based decorative materials. Its use in thematic installations, wall coverings and ornamental elements demonstrates its potential for sustainable and aesthetically appealing designs, while creating opportunities for artisans and enterprises associated with the jute sector.

 

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SS/S Saha/KOL/16.10.2026

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