Guwahati: Guwahati Municipal Corporation Launches Swachh Competition for Durga Puja Committees

GUWAHATI: In a swift response to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's call for post-Durga Puja cleanliness, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has initiated a 'Swachh' competition for Durga Puja committees within the city.

This unique competition is designed to promote cleanliness within the Puja mandaps and involves implementing a ban on the use of plastics during the celebrations. The focus is on environmental responsibility and maintaining the sanctity of the festival. Notably, no department directly affiliated with the competition will be involved to ensure transparency. Instead, independent third-party individuals will oversee the contest.

Durga Puja committees participating in this competition will have the opportunity to win cash prizes and certificates. The prizes are divided as follows:

First Prize: Awarded to 25 Puja committees, each receiving a cash prize of Rs. 10,000.

Second Prize:  Given to 50 committees, with each committee receiving a cash reward of Rs. 7,000.

Third Prize: Recognizing 100 committees, each of which will receive Rs. 5,000 in cash.

The winners of this competition will be announced on October 28 and 29, providing an additional incentive for Puja committees to maintain the cleanliness and environmental friendliness of their mandaps.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the need for such a competition, expressing concern over the post-Durga Puja condition of the mandaps. He noted that after the idol immersion, the sanctity of the area was often compromised by litter and debris, which was incongruous with the spirit of devotion and reverence that the festival represents.

Sarma also drew a parallel with the various other categories of competitions held during Durga Puja, including those for the best lighting, best idol, and best pandal. Regardless of budget constraints, he stressed that the enthusiasm and devotion displayed by the devotees during the festival remained unwavering. To further enhance the significance of the festival and promote cleanliness, he suggested organizing a cleanliness competition after Maa Durga's Visarjan.

The 'Swachh' competition introduced by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation aligns perfectly with this vision. It encourages Puja committees to not only excel in the traditional aspects of the festival but also to prioritize and maintain cleanliness, making it a more holistic and eco-conscious celebration. This initiative underlines the importance of responsible celebration and respect for the environment while keeping the essence of devotion intact during Durga Puja.

ALSO READ: Mizoram: Election Commission of India Faces Requests for Vote Counting Date Change in Mizoram

ALSO WATCH: