The Sikkim State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), on September 13, 2025, notified regarding the idol immersion in water bodies.
The following amendments have been stated:
• Plaster of Paris shall not be used for making Idols.
• No Puja Committee or organization, or individual shall use Synthetic/ Plastic colour for painting of idols and other decoration purposes, including the puja pandal, in any festival.
• Sub-Divisional Magistrate/Block Development Officer (BDO) are requested to implement the provision of the Sikkim Idol Immersion Rules, 2019 within their jurisdiction for Environmental Protection. Constitute a Coordination Committee under his/her Chairmanship, comprising the members from Police, Non-Government Organizations, Local authorities, representatives of Puja Committees, stakeholders, etc., for effective monitoring and control of pollution in his or her jurisdiction. He/she may co-opt any other official/individual as he/she deems fit.
• Non-biodegradable items are strictly prohibited for making idols and festivals. Pandal decoration in any
• The height of the superstructure shall be less than 30 ft. and the idol shall not exceed 10 ft. in height.
[Notification no. 820/SPCB/922]
