The Hindu : New Delhi News : Time to give khadi a new look: Pratibha

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Wednesday, Nov 21, 2007
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Time to give khadi a new look: Pratibha

Staff Reporter

The President addresses the golden jubilee celebrations of Khadi and Village Industries Commission

NEW DELHI: Referring to khadi as a tool of economic freedom for many, President Pratibha Patil on Monday said nationalised banks and other financial institutions should be involved in programmes being run for creation of rural employment through khadi and village industries.

Addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), she said khadi and village industries occupy the most important place in the country’s economy after agriculture.

“There is a need for the Khadi Board and the Government to pay special attention to see that artisans can get finance easily and through the nearest bank. The requirements of the needy to get proper benefits through loans and grants should also be kept in mind,” she said.

Freedom struggle

Recalling the role played by khadi in giving impetus to the freedom struggle, the President said: “In India, khadi evokes a strong sentiment since it has been associated with our freedom struggle. To give impetus to the freedom movement and as a substitute for materials being imported from Britain, Mahatma Gandhi chose khadi, which soon became a symbol of the unity of India against the colonial power. The use of khadi also conveyed a powerful message that Indians could be self-reliant and live with dignity in the most trying of circumstances.”

Suggesting giving khadi a new look to attract the youngsters, she said: “The khadi and village industries while retaining the intrinsic beauty of their products will survive in the long run if they take into account the changes occurring in the world in terms of market, technology and customer preferences. Blending khadi with other fibres such as silk and wool will give it a new image and open up further markets. Khadi could also be given a new look, where necessary, so as to attract the younger generation.”

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