New Delhi: The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) organized the ‘Khadi Diwali Fest-2026’ at the NDMC Palika Park in Connaught Place, New Delhi. The objective was to promote indigenous products and encourage public participation in initiatives such as ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.
The festival, themed ‘Khadi-wali Diwali’, commenced on October 31 and featured a media interaction and a ‘Diwali Milan’ (Diwali get together). KVIC chairman Manoj Goel attended the event as the chief guest.
Emphasizing youth participation, Manoj Goel encouraged Gen-Z to promote Khadi through contemporary designs, digital marketing, e-commerce and entrepreneurship. He also highlighted KVIC’s podcast, ‘Baat Khadi Ki’, which aims to connect younger audiences with Khadi through discussions on its legacy, modern fashion, innovation and youth entrepreneurship.
Addressing the gathering, Manoj Goel highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Khadi, as a symbol of self-reliance, self-respect, and economic independence. He stated that public participation in the Swadeshi movement has increased significantly. He appealed to citizens to prioritize Khadi and indigenous products during the festive season, in order to support artisans, weavers and rural entrepreneurs.
According to KVIC Chairman Manoj Goel, the turnover of the Khadi and Village Industries sector exceeded Rs 1.87 lakh crore in the 2025-26 financial year and generated employment for over 2.04 crore people. He expressed confidence that the sector would achieve its turnover target of ₹2.51 lakh crore in the coming years.
During this festival, a special discount of 20 percent is being offered on Khadi products and 10 percent on village industry products. Through this initiative, KVIC aims to encourage consumers to choose indigenous products during Diwali, expand market opportunities for rural enterprises, and strengthen the livelihoods of artisans across the country.
(PIB)
