In the span of the last 9 years, India has witnessed a remarkable revolution spurred by its artisans – a revolution that has unfolded on the charkha of Khadi, redefining self-reliance in the country. Khadi, a fabric that holds profound sentimental value for Indians, has transcended its historical symbolism to become the embodiment of indigenous manufacturing prowess. Today, Khadi stands not just as a piece of cloth, but as a potent representation of our nation’s progress and resilience.
At the forefront of this transformation is the Khadi industry, a cornerstone of India’s traditional trades. Beyond mere economic transactions, Khadi serves as a catalyst for sales, employment, and export potential. Its impact resonates in multiple dimensions, from boosting GDP to propelling rural development and entrepreneurship.
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), bolstered by unwavering support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has achieved a remarkable milestone. In the fiscal year 2022-23, KVIC recorded a staggering turnover of Rs 1.34 lakh crore, surpassing even the leading FMCG companies in India. This remarkable feat marks a monumental growth from the Rs. 31,154 crore turnover in 2013-14.
One of the most astonishing aspects of this journey is the unprecedented surge in the sale of indigenous Khadi products. The figures speak for themselves: a 332% growth in sales from 2013-14 to 2022-23. Among these products, the production of Khadi fabrics has witnessed an unparalleled surge. The production value leaped from Rs 811 crore in 2013-14 to an impressive Rs. 2916 crore in 2022-23, reflecting a 260% increase. Correspondingly, the demand for Khadi clothes saw a meteoric rise of 450%, with sales escalating from Rs 1081.04 crore in 2013-14 to an impressive Rs 5942.93 crore in 2022-23.
The artisans, the heart and soul of the Khadi sector, have reaped the rewards of this revolution. Their remuneration has escalated by over 150% since 2013-14. This success story is a tribute to the relentless efforts of cotton spinners and weavers who have poured their dedication into Khadi’s production and sale.
However, the impact of Khadi reaches far beyond the economic realm. It is a catalyst for rural empowerment, community building, and technological advancement. In the pursuit of self-sufficiency, Khadi has witnessed a digital transformation, with modernized infrastructure, R&D activities, and the launch of eKhadiIndia.com – an online platform showcasing over 50,000 Khadi products.
Underlying this progress is a profound commitment to rural revitalization. The KVIC’s Village Industries Program encompasses skill development training across various sectors, from honey and beekeeping to pottery and leather industries. This initiative has not only provided jobs but has also empowered women, SC, and ST entrepreneurs. The “Vocal for Local” movement has further amplified Khadi’s popularity, both domestically and internationally.
In terms of employment, Khadi has emerged as a harbinger of opportunities. The KVIC’s focus on sustainable employment has led to the creation of 9.5 lakh jobs in rural areas in 2022-23, a significant jump from the 5.6 lakh jobs in 2013-14. The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) has seamlessly connected the youth with the Swadeshi Campaign, promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship.
