Describing khadi as more than just a fabric, Kerala Health and Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan highlighted its significance in India’s freedom struggle. Mahatma Gandhi turned khadi into a symbol of national unity during the Swadeshi movement, urging the boycott of foreign textiles. The Minister emphasized that khadi embodies the soul of the nation and the emotions of those who fought for freedom.
Khadi has evolved beyond hand-spun textiles to include footwear, village industry products, and various value-added goods. With a majority of workers being women, khadi plays a crucial role in providing livelihoods and boosting the rural economy. Kerala leads in supporting the khadi sector, offering assistance to sustain the traditional industry.
Despite facing tough competition from imported textiles, khadi products maintain a strong presence in overseas markets due to their quality and uniqueness. The state government of Kerala prioritizes the use of khadi products in government departments and institutions whenever possible. The Onam Khadi Mela in the state capital offers significant rebates on khadi products and credit facilities for government, semi-government, and bank employees.
