Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attended the Khadi Karigar Mahotsav in Rohtak, Haryana, as Chief Guest, joined by Haryana’s Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and other senior dignitaries. The event, a celebration of the Khadi movement and its artisans, emphasized Khadi’s transformative journey under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and, more recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Khadi’s Role in India’s Freedom and Revival in Modern Era
Shri Amit Shah recounted Mahatma Gandhi’s use of Khadi as a tool for poverty eradication, self-reliance, and the Swadeshi movement during the freedom struggle, which elevated the livelihoods of millions of Indian weavers. He criticized post-independence neglect of Khadi, highlighting that the Modi government had revitalized it through major campaigns like ‘Khadi Apnao, Swadeshi Apnao,’ linking Khadi with national identity and economic self-reliance.
Record Growth and Employment Generation
A hallmark achievement cited was the exponential increase in Khadi and village industry turnover—from ₹33,000 crore in 2014-15 to ₹1.70 lakh crore—directly uplifting weavers and women by channeling profits straight to them. Shah noted that with consistent policy support, India could have eradicated unemployment decades ago.
The event saw 12 resource toolkits distributed to artisans, margin money of ₹301 crore allocated, and major initiatives like inauguration of the Organic Cotton Central Wool Plant in Wardha, 40 modernized Khadi outlets, and 8,000 new PMEGP units.
Swadeshi Integration and Vision for 2047
Shri Shah emphasized how Modi has mainstreamed Swadeshi and Swabhasha (native language) in public life, urging every family to purchase at least ₹5,000 worth of Khadi annually to further national self-reliance. He highlighted Khadi’s evolution into “Khadi for Fashion” and its convergence with beekeeping, pure oils, spices, and cosmetics, transforming Khadi into a global symbol of sustainable luxury.
He pointed out GST concessions on 395 essential items, further supporting domestic industry and benefiting rural communities and women.
Conclusion: Khadi Karigar Mahotsav
The Home Minister concluded by stressing that the Khadi movement remains central to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. With the ongoing renovation of the central wool plants and expansion of artisan support, the government is ensuring Khadi’s benefits reach every weaver, strengthening India’s tradition while paving the way for a self-reliant, powerful modern economy.
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Source: PIB
