Gandhinagar: Chief minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday purchased khadi from the Khadi Gram Udyog Haat in Gandhinagar on Gandhi Jayanti. Patel visited the khadi outlet after returning to Gandhinagar and purchased various khadi garments and made the payment digitally, in line with Modi’s call to promote digital transactions, an official statement said.The initiative is aimed at supporting poor families associated with khadi weaving and encouraging wider adoption of “Khadi for Fashion, Khadi for Nation” slogan.Meanwhile, the state govt announced a 30% special market incentive on khadi and polyvastra produced by recognised institutions and cooperatives in the state.The festive initiative is designed to give a massive boost to traditional handloom weavers and local textile artisans. The scheme, effective from Oct 2 to Dec 31, will benefit consumers through rebates at khadi sales centres. Furthermore, officials noted that this financial cushion helps offset production costs during peak festive shopping seasons.An official statement said the decision is aimed at promoting ‘Khadi for Nation, Khadi for Fashion’ and ‘Vocal for Local’, while supporting rural employment. By bridging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary markets, the policy encourages younger demographics to embrace sustainable, eco-friendly wardrobe choices. Over 220 recognised khadi institutions, employing more than 16,000 spinners and weavers, are expected to benefit. These dedicated rural artisans form the economic backbone of Gujarat’s cottage industry ecosystem.Khadi exhibitions-cum-sales fairs will also be held in Ahmedabad, Bharuch and Vadodara during Oct, the statement added. These vibrant pop-up markets provide direct consumer access, cutting out intermediaries to ensure maximum earnings flow back to village weavers.
