3 hrs ago
Karnataka Forms Task Force to Curb PoP Ganesh Idols
Karnataka has created special teams to stop the sale and manufacture of Plaster of Paris, or PoP, Ganesh idols.
These idols are banned in the state.
The teams will look for PoP idols in shops, warehouses, and manufacturing locations.
They will also seize idols found in violation of the rules.
Between August 18 and September 2, 2026, officials inspected 153 shops and warehouses.
They seized 872 PoP Ganesh idols.
The government says clay idols are better for water bodies and aquatic life.
People were asked to celebrate with eco-friendly clay idols instead.
The Karnataka Forest Department formed task force teams in nine cities ahead of the Ganesh festival.
Teams will identify, prevent the sale of, and seize Plaster of Paris idols made or stocked in violation of guidelines.
From August 18 to September 2, 2026, teams inspected 153 shops and warehouses.
Authorities seized 872 Plaster of Paris Ganesh idols during the special drive.
The government urged residents to choose biodegradable clay idols to reduce water pollution and waste.
- Who
- The Karnataka Forest Department, special task force teams, and Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy.
- What
- The state formed task forces to enforce its ban on the manufacture, transportation, sale, and immersion of PoP Ganesh idols.
- Where
- The teams operate in Bengaluru, Ramanagara, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Belagavi, Davanagere, Dharwad, Kalaburagi, and Vijayanagara in Karnataka.
- When
- The special drive ran from August 18 to September 2, 2026, ahead of the Ganesh festival.
- Why
- The measures aim to protect water bodies, aquatic life, and the environment from pollution and waste.
Key facts
- State
- Karnataka
- Enforcement agency
- Karnataka Forest Department
- Cities covered
- Nine cities
- Inspection period
- August 18–September 2, 2026
- Shops and warehouses inspected
- 153
- PoP idols seized
- 872
- Preferred alternative
- Biodegradable clay Ganesh idols
Sources
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