KVIC and NIFT Partner to Elevate Khadi Globally

Why in the news?

Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) signed an MoU with NIFT under CoEK-2.0 to enhance Khadi’s global reach, focusing on design innovation, capacity building, and market expansion.

About the KVIC-NIFT MoU for Khadi Development:

  • KVIC and NIFT signed an MoU under the Khadi Centre of Excellence 2.0 (CoEK-2.0).
  • Aim: Enhance Khadi’s global reach, making it more popular and marketable.
  • NIFT will collaborate on design, training, and developing new high-quality Khadi products.

Objectives of CoEK-2.0:

  • Focus on design innovation, capacity building, and market expansion for Brand Khadi.
  • NIFT established a hub in Delhi and spoke centres across India, including Bengaluru and Kolkata.
  • Initiatives include Khadi fashion shows, exhibitions, and training programs for Khadi institutions.

Strengthening Khadi:

  • Khadi Knowledge Portal 2.0 and a dyeing studio in Assam will be launched.
  • ₹25.17 crore will be spent over three years to boost Khadi quality and branding.
  • CoEK will help build new Khadi stores, strategize for KVIC, and improve Khadi’s appeal to the youth.

About Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC): 

  • KVIC: Statutory body under the Ministry of MSME, established by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act, 1956.
  • Functions: Promote, plan, and implement development programs for Khadi and village industries.
  • Key Roles: Supply raw materials, marketing, research, financial assistance, and quality assurance.
  • State Boards: Implement KVIC schemes at the state level.
  • Major Schemes: PMEGP, MPDA, ISEC, SFURTI, Honey Mission, and KRDP for infrastructure, employment, and industry regeneration.

What is Khadi?

  • Khadi: Hand-spun and handwoven fabric.
  • Production: Made using a spinning wheel called a charkha.
  • Materials: Includes cotton, silk, and wool.
  • Alternate Name: Also known as Khaddar.
  • Variety: Produced in various states of India, each with a unique type of khadi fabric.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times