The 42nd edition of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from November 14 to 27, 2023, witnessed an extraordinary feat in the realm of indigenous craftsmanship. The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), an integral part of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, scripted history by achieving record-breaking sales of Khadi and village industry products worth an astounding Rs 15.03 crore at the ‘Khadi Pavilion’ set up in Hall No. 3. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in KVIC’s legacy.
The sales figure, an all-time high for KVIC in the history of IITF, reflects the resounding impact of the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, spearheaded by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Khadi lovers and patrons flocked to the Khadi India Pavilion, showcasing a tremendous response from the people of Delhi who contributed substantially to this monumental sale.
KVIC Chairman, Shri Manoj Kumar, attributed the remarkable success to the overwhelming support and resonance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for a self-reliant India. He highlighted the pivotal role of the ‘New Khadi of New India’ in galvanizing the campaign for a self-sufficient nation. Notably, the Khadi Pavilion received the esteemed Special Commendation Medal Award from the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), acknowledging its excellence and impact.
During the closing ceremony on November 27, Shri Kumar felicitated participants based on their sales performance in this year’s IITF. TNR Silk Khadi of Karnataka clinched the first prize with sales worth Rs 4,408,870, followed by Nazneen Silk Khadi Industries of Karnataka at the second position with sales of Rs 3,076,600. Shirin Silk Khadi Village Industries Association of Karnataka secured the third position, showcasing sales figures of Rs 2,253,570. Recognizing the efforts of various participants, consolation prizes were also conferred on 10 stalls based on their sales achievements.
Moreover, 214 Khadi and Village Industries organizations, units under the Prime Minister Employment Generation Program (PMEGP), and those established under the SFURTI Cluster received certificates of appreciation for their participation and contribution to the Khadi India Pavilion.
Shri Kumar emphasized that the Khadi India Pavilion epitomized Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-reliant India. The Pavilion hosted 214 stalls, offering a diverse array of handcrafted Khadi and Village Industries products. The exhibition featured indigenous techniques such as the traditional charkha, an electric-powered pottery wheel, the process of extracting raw ghani oil, and live demonstrations on making incense sticks from recycled temple flowers. The interactive selfie point featuring Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was a notable attraction among the youth.
Through these 214 stalls, the Khadi India Pavilion showcased India’s rich heritage, diverse craftsmanship, and exquisite handicrafts, ensuring more than 40% representation for institutions dedicated to Khadi manufacturing. This inclusion not only celebrated the legacy of Khadi but also highlighted the prowess of Gramodyog, PMEGP, and SFURTI units.
Shri Kumar concluded by highlighting that the unprecedented sales figure of Rs 15.03 crore significantly empowers artisans residing in rural India, reaffirming their importance in the nation’s journey towards self-reliance. The event stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Khadi, resonating with the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local’ and bolstering the cause of indigenous craftsmanship and enterprise.