QCI and KVIC Join Forces to Boost Khadi Quality
Newzdaddy Business Updates
In a significant move towards promoting Khadi as a symbol of self-reliance and sustainable development, the Quality Council of India (QCI) and the Khadi Village & Industries Commission (KVIC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration aims to enhance the quality of Khadi products, empower artisans, and introduce a ‘Made in India’ label for Khadi. The initiative aligns with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and holds historical significance at Kochrab Ashram, Ahmedabad.
Historical Context and Symbolism
The MoU signing took place at Kochrab Ashram, symbolizing the historical connection of Khadi with Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi popularized Khadi as a symbol of India’s struggle for independence and a means of empowering rural India. This collaboration signifies a commitment to preserving the cultural and historical importance of Khadi.
he exchange of MoU occurred in the presence of Shri Jaxay Shah, Chairperson of QCI, and Shri Manoj Kumar, Chairperson of KVIC. Their involvement highlights the high-level commitment to the collaboration and the importance both organizations place on the success of this joint effort.
The collaboration between QCI and KVIC aims to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India). The focus is on enhancing the overall quality ecosystem, ensuring that Khadi maintains its timeless appeal while becoming a global symbol of quality and sustainability.
QCI’s Role in Quality Enhancement
QCI will play a crucial role by providing support to KVIC in enhancing the quality of Khadi and Khadi & Village Industries products. This will involve implementing third-party assessment frameworks to ensure rigorous quality standards. The goal is to maintain the authenticity and appeal of Khadi products both domestically and internationally.
A significant aspect of the collaboration is empowering Khadi artisans. QCI plans to implement various interventions, including capacity building programs, to improve their productivity and earning potential. By enhancing the skills and knowledge of artisans, the collaboration seeks to uplift their socio-economic status.
Global Promotion of Khadi
The collaboration will also focus on promoting Khadi products globally. With QCI’s support, KVIC aims to position Khadi as a ‘Made in India’ product of exceptional quality. This will not only contribute to increased production and sales but will also establish Khadi as a symbol of quality and authenticity on the global stage.
One of the significant outcomes of this collaboration is the introduction of the ‘Made in India’ label for Khadi products. This label is expected to bring a substantial boost to the Khadi industry, making it easily recognizable as a symbol of quality both in domestic and international markets.
Benefits for Khadi Artisans
The collaboration is anticipated to bring numerous benefits to Khadi artisans. These include increased income, enhanced productivity, and efficiency through skill development, and the creation of new employment opportunities. Additionally, it aims to garner greater recognition for the craftsmanship and heritage associated with Khadi.
Shri Jaxay Shah, Chairperson of QCI, expressed immense pride in partnering with KVIC. He emphasized that Khadi represents not just an industry but an ideology of self-reliant India. Shri Shah highlighted that Khadi is a symbol of India’s culture, heritage, and sustainability, and this collaboration will contribute to retaining its essence while gaining global recognition.
Shri Manoj Kumar, Chairperson of KVIC, emphasized Khadi’s role as India’s handwoven symbol of self-reliance and sustainability. He noted the remarkable growth in production and sales in recent years and expressed confidence that the collaboration with QCI will further enhance recognition and consumer preference for Khadi.
Growth and Impact of the Khadi Industry
The Khadi industry has witnessed phenomenal growth, with a remarkable 268% increase in production from 2013-14 to 2022-23. Sales surged by an impressive 332% during the same period, translating into 9.54 lakh jobs in FY23 alone. This growth trend underscores the economic significance of Khadi and the potential for further expansion.
Consumer inclination towards Khadi has been on the rise, driven by a growing awareness of sustainability and a preference for locally-made products. The ‘Made in India’ label is expected to amplify this trend, making Khadi a preferred choice for conscious consumers both in India and abroad.
The collaboration between QCI and KVIC marks a pivotal moment in the journey of Khadi, aligning with the vision of a self-reliant and developed India. By focusing on quality enhancement, artisan empowerment, and global promotion, the partnership aims to secure a bright future for the Khadi industry. The introduction of the ‘Made in India’ label is poised to elevate Khadi’s status as a symbol of quality and authenticity on the global stage.
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