Kolkata, 08 October (H.S.): The Durga Puja of Kolkata is one of the grandest and largest festivals in the world, sharing a deep and direct connection with the lives of the people of Bengal. Emphasizing the need to make this year's festivities completely eco-friendly, Minister of State for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Umesh Rai attended the 'Sharad Pushpanjali Samman' ceremony organized by 'Sigwage' as the chief guest.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Rai stated that such massive celebrations provide an excellent platform to deliver significant social messages. Highlighting waste management and global warming as the biggest contemporary challenges, he appreciated the artists and puja committees that are sending out strong messages on water conservation, energy efficiency, and environmental protection through their art, pandals, and themes.

Sharing the state government's perspective, the minister conveyed that Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has given clear directives to celebrate Durga Puja not merely as a festival, but with utmost devotion and spiritual fervor. He announced a complete ban on the use of cranes during idol immersion this year, stating that the idols of Goddess Durga will not be suspended by cranes into the water, but will be bid farewell with full respect, devotion, and traditional sentiments. He also informed that special decoration and management initiatives are being undertaken by the state government at various Ganga ghats, such as Ramkrishnapur Ghat in Howrah, as well as at metro stations, railway stations, and bus terminals.

Expressing deep concern over the widespread use of flex banners and plastic during the festival, Minister Rai pointed out that the volume of flex used during the pujas surpasses even that of elections. Since these materials cannot be reused, they pose a severe threat to the environment. He lauded the initiative taken by 'Sigwage' to promote eco-friendly pandals, idols, and decorations, assuring that the government will actively encourage and support such environmentally conscious puja committees. The event witnessed the presence of several other dignitaries. This year, approximately 450 puja committees from across Kolkata have applied for the 'Sharad Pushpanjali Samman', out of which the best eco-friendly organizers will be awarded.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh