After Somnath, Gujarat Plans Eco-Friendly Prasad Packaging at Ambaji Temple

The proposed initiative follows the launch of plastic-free prasad packaging at the Somnath temple in September and aims to extend the approach to another major pilgrimage centre in the state.

The packaging alternatives, developed by the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, include moulded containers made from sugarcane bagasse, reusable tin boxes and paper packaging that does not use plastic.

Ambaji Temple Generates Significant Packaging Waste

Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the Ambaji temple currently uses around 15,000 plastic prasad boxes on a regular day, with demand rising significantly during festivals and special occasions.

Approximately 10 lakh boxes are distributed every month, generating an estimated 11,299.5 kg of packaging-related plastic waste.

“The proposed transition to eco-friendly alternatives could prevent approximately 135.6 tonnes of plastic waste annually at Ambaji,” Modhwadia said.

He added that the new packaging options were being designed to meet the hygiene, functionality and convenience requirements of prasad distribution while retaining its cultural significance.

The GPCB engaged NID Ahmedabad’s Integrated Design Services through a professional design consultancy assignment to develop packaging solutions suited to the needs of both Somnath and Ambaji temples.

Different Packaging Options for Different Needs

Field studies conducted at the two pilgrimage centres examined devotee footfall, prasad distribution volumes, preparation and packaging methods, storage conditions, distribution patterns and existing waste-generation practices.

The assessment found that a single packaging solution would not be suitable for every situation. Prasad intended for immediate consumption requires lightweight, biodegradable packaging, while items carried home or transported over longer distances need more durable containers.

Accordingly, the proposed options include paper boxes and moulded sugarcane bagasse containers for short-term use, alongside reusable tin boxes designed to be retained by devotees.

The approach aims to reduce dependence on single-use plastic without compromising the practical requirements of distributing prasad to large numbers of visitors.

Somnath Initiative Expected to Eliminate Over 203 Tonnes of Plastic Annually

At the Somnath temple, prasad is now being distributed in plastic-free paper boxes and reusable tin containers. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel formally inaugurated the initiative on September 17.

The temple distributes approximately 4,200 kg of prasad in nearly 27,700 boxes every day. The shift to sustainable alternatives is expected to eliminate more than 203 tonnes of plastic use annually.

Minister of State for Forests and Environment Pravin Mali said the initiative was intended to make environmental responsibility an integral part of religious practices.

“By introducing biodegradable and reusable alternatives at prominent pilgrimage centres, GPCB aims to demonstrate how thoughtful design, institutional action and public participation can deliver measurable environmental benefits,” Mali said.

Sustainable Packaging Model May Expand to Other Pilgrimage Sites

The proposed transition at Ambaji forms part of a broader effort to promote sustainable waste management at religious sites and encourage devotees to adopt environmentally responsible practices.

With plastic-free packaging already introduced at Somnath and plans being developed for Ambaji, the model could provide a framework for similar initiatives at other pilgrimage centres in Gujarat and beyond.

The expected reduction in plastic waste at Ambaji will depend on the implementation of the proposed alternatives and the extent to which conventional plastic packaging is replaced.