To popularise khadi among the younger generation, Karnataka State Khadi and Village Industries Board (KSK &VIB) has signed an MoU with National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
The MoU would help in revitalising and reviving khadi as well as attempt to improve the life of skilled artisans by updating them on the latest trends. NIFT would train clusters of artisans across the State to establish khadi as a brand. The project aims to train around 18,000 persons working in 160 khadi units.
Tushar Girinath, Secretary, Mines, SSI and Textiles, said, “Redesigning khadi products such that they become fashion quotients will help step up sales.”
Prem Kumar Gera, Director General of NIFT, said that the objective of the project is to increase the income of weavers. NIFT would first conduct a baseline survey to understand the sector and identify clusters for intervention. It would select artisans at the cluster level for training in association with nodal officers of KSK & VIB. Besides, it would also develop the product and decide the market strategy.
Laxmanrao A. Chingale, Chairman, KSK &VIB, said, “Khadi has received optimum financial assistance from the government. Now, we have to take the education route.”
