IIT (ISM) Dhanbad's Khadi Mahotsav Celebrates Khadi Industry, Advocates 'Vocal for Local'

In a vibrant display of India's rich heritage and economic potential, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission, under the Ministry of MSME, joined hands with the Atal Community Innovation Centre (ACIC) IIT (ISM) Foundation to host the Khadi Mahotsav at the i2h building of IIT (ISM). This event, graced by the honourable member/chairman, East Zone of Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), Ministry of MSME, Govt of India, as Chief Guest, witnessed an impressive exhibition of handlooms, handicrafts, One District One Product (ODOP) items, and an array of products from cottage industries.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest emphasised the extraordinary growth in the Khadi Gramodyog sector, revealing that the annual turnover has skyrocketed from ₹20-22 thousand crore in 2014 to a staggering Rs 1.34 lakh crore in the past nine years. He added, “This 1.34 crore has not gone to any four five family, but it benefited thousands of families in form of amount of ₹10 thousand, ₹20 thousand, 30 thousand etc”.

He further emphasised the untapped potential of this sector, asserting that with a little technological support and heightened consumer awareness, this turnover could easily reach a remarkable ₹5 lakh crore per annum turnover. Painting a vivid future, he envisioned India as one of the top three global economies of the future, particularly as the nation approaches its centenary of independence.

Professor J K Pattanayak, Director of IIT (ISM), praised the government's visionary approach to infuse Khadi with modern sensibilities. He emphasised the need for Khadi to resonate with the fashion-conscious youth, ensuring it remains a symbol of contemporary style.

Prof Dheeraj Kumar, who also present during the occasion, said, “The basic idea behind organizing the Khadi Mahtosav is to promote the idea of Vocal for Local and AtmaNirbhar Bharat Abhiyan as envisioned by Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.”

Echoing the sentiment, Professor Saumya Singh, President of ACIC IIT (ISM) Foundation, highlighted the event's core objective: to create a platform where indigenous products can compete on a global scale.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Akansha Sinha, CEO of ACIC IIT (ISM) Foundation, alongside Camelia Chaudhary, Manager ACIC (ISM), marking the close of a successful Khadi Mahotsav that resonated with a fervent commitment to the 'Vocal for Local' movement.