In a historic first, India’s Commonwealth Games 2026 contingent will wear eco-friendly jute-viscose blended apparel developed by the National Jute Board under the Ministry of Textiles. The initiative promotes Make in India, sustainable textiles, and natural fibres, giving global recognition to India’s jute industry and farmers.
Key Highlights
- Indian contingent will wear jute-viscose blended apparel at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow.
- National Jute Board developed the sustainable fabric under the Ministry of Textiles.
- Apparel was designed by NIFT New Delhi with support from Gloster Jute Mills, Kolkata.
- Initiative boosts Make in India, sustainable fashion, and India’s jute industry on the global stage.
New Delhi, July 08: In a landmark move to promote sustainable textiles and India’s natural fibre industry, the National Jute Board (NJB) under the Ministry of Textiles has developed jute-viscose blended apparel for the Indian contingent participating in the Commonwealth Games 2026. The event will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, 2026, marking the first time jute-based sports apparel will be showcased at an international multi-sport event.
The initiative reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting Make in India products while encouraging the use of environment-friendly and biodegradable textiles. Under the leadership of Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh, the Ministry has been actively supporting value-added applications of jute, positioning the fibre as a sustainable alternative for the global apparel industry.
The official kit unveiling and send-off ceremony was attended by Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh, Minister of State Raksha Khadse, Indian Olympic Association President P. T. Usha, and senior officials. The ceremony highlighted India’s commitment to combining sports excellence with sustainable innovation.
The National Jute Board, with technical support from Gloster Jute Mills, Kolkata, developed the innovative 100% biodegradable jute-viscose blended fabric. The apparel was later designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi, ensuring modern styling while maintaining sustainability standards. The concept was first showcased during the National Jute Board Foundation Day celebrations in Patna earlier this year.
The Commonwealth Games 2026 will feature athletes from 72 countries, with India sending a 124-member contingent comprising 78 male and 46 female athletes. Wearing Make in India jute apparel on such a prestigious international platform is expected to provide significant visibility to India’s jute industry, manufacturers, and farmers.
Beyond the Games, the initiative is expected to strengthen the National Jute Board’s Jute Diversification Programme, create new market opportunities for sustainable jute products, and reinforce India’s leadership in eco-friendly textiles. It also sends a strong message about adopting natural fibres as responsible alternatives in the global fashion and textile sector.
Conclusion
The decision to outfit the Indian contingent in sustainable jute apparel at the Commonwealth Games 2026 is a significant milestone that showcases India’s commitment to green innovation, Make in India, and the global promotion of natural fibres.
