The Odisha government plans to introduce cow-dung cakes (ghassi) for cremation instead of wood.

This will be introduced at Swargadwara, the famous Hindu crematorium in Puri, located near the sea beach. Every day, the crematorium receives hundreds of bodies.

Swargadwara has religious significance for Hindus who believe that the performance of the last rites of a person at this crematorium opens the gateway to heaven for the person.

Minister of fisheries and animal resources development Gukula Nanda Mallik said: “The use of cow dung cakes for cremation aligns with Hindu religious practice. The change will be made in consultation with all the stakeholders. It will save hundreds of trees cut down for cremation. The step will reduce environmental hazards. A blueprint to this effect will be prepared soon.”

He said: “To implement the scheme, we are seeking inputs from all persons, including those managing the Swargadwara. To finalise the details, a committee will be formed under the chairmanship of the deputy chief minister. The committee will also include five ministers and five secretaries. The committee will suggest ways to use cow dung and cow protection.”