New Delhi: Union Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Jitan Ram Manjhi, inaugurated a special Khadi exhibition at INA Delhi Haat today. Organized by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) as part of the nationwide Khadi Mahotsav, the exhibition aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, aiming to boost the income of Khadi artisans.
The opening ceremony saw the presence of KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar, along with senior officials from the Ministry of MSME and KVIC. The exhibition features 157 stalls from 55 Khadi institutions and 102 village industries units across India which includes participants from Delhi, Rajasthan, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Haryana, and Jammu.
A diverse collection of Khadi and village industry products are on display, ranging from sarees, readymade garments, and handicrafts to herbal products, leather goods, pickles, soaps, spices, honey, and handmade paper items, which are also available for purchase at different stalls. Visitors can also enjoy live demonstrations by artisans and craftsmen, showcasing traditional crafts, and enhancing the cultural experience.
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During his address, Minister Manjhi urged citizens to support local artisans by purchasing Khadi products for their festive shopping. “This exhibition not only promotes Khadi but also strengthens the economic condition of rural artisans, empowering them while preserving India’s heritage of indigenous craftsmanship,” he said. Manjhi made a special appeal to people to visit the exhibition and support local businesses in the spirit of Vocal for Local and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar highlighted the government’s efforts to boost the Khadi sector. “Following the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Khadi and Village Industries sector achieved a record turnover of ₹1.55 lakh crore last financial year, directly benefiting artisans,” Kumar said. He also mentioned the recent wage hike—25% for spinners and 7% for weavers—introduced on Gandhi Jayanti.
In addition to the product displays, the exhibition will feature captivating cultural performances and live craft demonstrations to enhance visitors’ experience. “This platform plays a critical role in empowering rural artisans by giving them visibility and preserving India’s rich craftsmanship,” Kumar emphasized.
The special Khadi exhibition will remain open to the public at INA Delhi Haat until October 31, offering an opportunity to embrace locally crafted products during the festive season.