Major Retailers to Have Special Khadi Zone: Giriraj Singh

Discussing the growing demand for Khadi products among youth and consumers of all ages, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSME Ministry, Mr Giriraj Singh highlighted some major developments with respect to the expansion of Khadi’s market outreach.

“Soon, big retail stores will have dedicated space for selling designer Khadi products. We had a very fruitful and positive interaction with country’s leading retailers and realised that they have a great interest in Khadi products from the perspective of market demand. We are committed and aggressive towards ensuring the availability of Khadi products at a maximum number of outlets which are accessed by the masses. To popularise Khadi among the masses we are committed to help increase the income of artisans.  This is a mission on which we are working,” says Mr Giriraj Singh in a discussion with SMEStreet.

Khadi for Self-Employment

Further informing about the focus and efforts of the MSME Ministry towards Khadi, Union MSME Minister, Mr. Singh also said, “In order to make great impact on country’s rural population, 800 villages will be converted to Khadi clusters for generating employment. With such plan, we will be taking self-employment opportunities through Khadi among 5 Crore people.”

"We are set to break the age-old perception towards Khadi. Generally, Khadi is often perceived as something consumed by the older generation, this trend is changing rapidly. This is a known fact that fashion industry is exploring Khadi as a great opportunity for youth. This we understood when we spoke to 30 retail chains like Big Bazaar, Pantaloons, Globus, etc. in Mumbai. And after the meeting, all have expressed their willingness to keep a special place for Khadi products within their respective retail outlets.” Giriraj Singh added.

Minister also informed that they are speaking to country’s top designers for their association with Khadi. The outcome is that for the first time you will see exclusive Khadi corners with designer Khadi products in many of these retail chains which will add value. In the process, this will also help the artisans.