New Delhi: The National Jute Board under the Ministry of Textiles has developed jute-viscose blended apparel for the Indian contingent participating in the Commonwealth Games 2026, marking the first time jute-based clothing will be showcased at an international multi-sport event.
The Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, with the initiative highlighting India’s efforts to promote sustainable textiles and strengthen the global presence of its jute industry.
Sustainable fabric for international stage
According to the Ministry of Textiles, the apparel has been made using a 100 per cent biodegradable jute-viscose blended fabric, showcasing jute as an environmentally friendly and innovative textile material.
The ministry said the initiative is expected to provide international visibility to India’s jute sector while recognising the contribution of jute farmers, manufacturers and designers.
“This marks the first occasion on which jute-based apparel will be showcased at an international multi-sport event,” the ministry said in a statement.
Official unveiling in New Delhi
The official Kit Unveiling and Send-off Ceremony for the Commonwealth Games 2026 was held in New Delhi on Tuesday.
The event was attended by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P. T. Usha, and other senior officials.
The unveiling marked the formal presentation of the Indian contingent’s official attire ahead of the Games.
Collaboration between industry and designers
The National Jute Board facilitated the development of the specialised fabric with support from Gloster Jute Mills in Kolkata.
Following the development of the material, the board worked in coordination with the Indian Olympic Association to introduce jute-based apparel for the national contingent.
The outfits were designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi, using the specially developed jute-viscose blended fabric.
The collaboration aimed to combine sustainability, functionality and modern design while promoting eco-friendly textiles on a global sporting platform.
India to field 124-member contingent
The Commonwealth Games 2026 will feature athletes from 72 countries.
India will send a 124-member contingent, comprising 78 male and 46 female athletes, to compete in the Games.
The ministry expressed confidence that the initiative would not only showcase India’s sporting talent but also demonstrate the country’s innovation in sustainable textile manufacturing before an international audience.
The move is also expected to encourage wider adoption of eco-friendly fabrics and reinforce India’s position as one of the world’s leading producers of natural fibres.