On 7 July 2026 the Indian contingent unveiled jute‑viscose blended apparel for the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. The kit was developed by the National Jute Board under the Ministry of Textiles.
Design and Fabric
- Developers: National Jute Board (Ministry of Textiles); fabric support from Gloster Jute Mills, Kolkata; design by NIFT, New Delhi.
- Blend: Jute‑viscose blend; viscose is a regenerated cellulose fibre derived from wood pulp.
- Biodegradability: Apparel described as 100% biodegradable.
- Jute species: Commercial jute derives from Corchorus capsularis and Corchorus olitorius.
Policy and Programme Linkages
- Jute Diversification Programme (JDP): Central scheme to promote value‑added jute products and diversify uses beyond packaging.
- National Jute Board role: Nodal agency for promotion, research support and market development of jute products.
- Make in India: Initiative cited as alignment for domestic manufacturing and global promotion.
Event Context
- Games timeline: Commonwealth Games 2026, Glasgow, 23 July–2 August 2026.
- International showcase: First instance of jute‑based apparel presented at a multi‑sport international event.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- National Jute Board: Statutory body under the Ministry of Textiles responsible for implementing jute development programmes.
- Jute Goods (Compulsory Use in Packaging) Act, 1987: Legal framework historically promoting jute use in packaging.
- Technical note: Viscose is categorised as regenerated cellulose; end‑of‑life biodegradability depends on fibre treatment and additives.