Bengaluru: A new directive from the Karnataka government requiring all government employees to wear khadi on the first Saturday of every month has drawn mixed reactions across the state. The initiative is intended to revive traditional handloom production, strengthen local artisans, and promote the use of indigenous fabric in public life.
While cultural and industry groups have welcomed the move as a step toward sustaining heritage crafts, several handloom associations have raised concerns about implementation. They warn that existing production capacity may not be sufficient to meet the sudden rise in demand, potentially leading to the circulation of counterfeit khadi in the market. Artisans have also pointed to the need for stronger institutional support, including fair pricing, improved supply chains, and direct procurement mechanisms to ensure genuine producers benefit from the policy.
Officials maintain that the measure reflects a broader commitment to rural livelihoods and self-reliance, but stakeholders say its long-term success will depend on effective monitoring and meaningful support for authentic handloom workers.
