Khadi sales double in Mysuru after govt circular on first-Saturday wear

Mysuru: A circular issued by the state govt advising employees to voluntarily wear khadi on the first Saturday of every month has led to a surge in demand, according to officials of the Karnataka State Khadi and Village Industries Board.

Board authorities said that between Feb and May-end, sales of Khadi clothes in Mysuru city doubled to Rs 50 lakh. Two Board showrooms are functional in the city.

Through a circular dated Jan 29, chief secretary Shalini Rajneesh advised govt employees, including those serving in boards, corporations, autonomous bodies and universities, to opt for khadi clothes on the first Saturday of every month. The circular also encouraged wearing khadi during govt events and important festivals.

As per the circular, the measure is expected to foster respect for indigenous products, unity, national spirit, Indianness, self-respect and social responsibility among govt officers and employees.

Officials said 176 organisations are currently manufacturing various khadi products in the state. Board officials said the circular triggered a sudden demand for khadi clothes in the city, providing relief to organisations facing declining demand.

According to Board officials, revenue reached Rs 50 lakh in three months, which is double the revenue recorded during the same period last year.

Sharath Chandra, district khadi officer, said Khadi woven at Badanavalu and Tumakuru is sold in the two Board showrooms in the city. “Initially, there was a shortage of clothes due to sudden demand. Now, the supply and demand have stabilised. There is a huge demand for the Khadi clothes from the govt employees,” he said.

“We conducted a two-day special sales event at DC’s office. We earned a revenue of Rs 5 lakh,” he said.