Jamshedpur Launches Cleanest Durga Puja Pandal Contest

Urban bodies to award top committees based on 16 cleanliness parameters

Key Points:

• Contest part of ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ and ‘Swachh Survekshan 2024’

• 16 cleanliness parameters, each worth 10 points, to judge pandals

• Winners to receive prizes for promoting eco-friendly practices

JAMSHEDPUR – Local urban bodies have announced a competition to identify and reward the cleanest Durga Puja pandals in Jamshedpur, Mango, and Jugsalai areas.

The initiative falls under the ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ and ‘Swachh Survekshan 2024’ campaigns.

Three urban local bodies are spearheading this cleanliness drive.

These include Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC) and two municipal corporations.

The contest will evaluate Durga Puja committees based on 16 cleanliness parameters.

Each parameter carries 10 points, with a total possible score of 160.

A team will soon be formed to inspect the pandals, officials stated.

"Top-performing committees will be awarded and encouraged," they added.

The competition aims to promote eco-friendly practices during the festival.

Parameters include using nature-friendly materials for pandal and idol construction.

Moreover, committees are encouraged to use biodegradable materials for decorations.

The contest also emphasizes proper waste management at pandal sites.

Organizers must ensure separate queues for men and women at the pandals.

Additionally, committees should run campaigns against substance abuse and plastic use.

Proper placement of green and blue dustbins is another crucial parameter.

Furthermore, idol immersion should occur only at designated sites.

The initiative also encourages creative cleanliness measures by committees and citizens.

However, some puja organizers express concerns about meeting all criteria.

Nevertheless, officials believe the competition will significantly boost cleanliness awareness.