(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Khadi: Innovations Crafting New Trends

(DECEMBER-2025)

Khadi: Innovations Crafting New Trends

Introduction:

Khadi, or Khaddar, is a significant part of the Indian textile industry, recognized as handwoven and hand-spun cloth from Eastern and North Eastern India and Bangladesh. Made from cotton, silk, wool, or their blends, Khadi is valued for its durability, comfort, and thermal adaptability. It also supports rural economies through decentralized production and aligns with sustainability trends due to its eco-friendly nature. To maximize Khadi’s potential, modernisation is necessary while preserving its handcrafted quality.

Technological interventions and policy frameworks

Technological advancements and policy initiatives have significantly contributed to the revival of Khadi. Enhanced mechanisation, such as improved charkhas, ergonomic looms, and solar-powered dyeing units, has minimized labor intensity, boosted output, and improved product quality while maintaining the handmade essence. Support from the KVIC and state bodies in skill training, design development, infrastructure, and market promotion has fostered a favorable environment for Khadi businesses, leading to growth in production, sales, and employment in the sector.

Evolution of Khadi

Historical evidence indicates that Khadi-like fabrics have origins in the ancient Mohenjo-Daro civilization, with significant use during the Mauryan era, as highlighted by Chanakya’s Arthashastra.
Khadi was central to the economy, and its depictions in the Ajanta Caves further affirm its ancient significance. In modern times, Mahatma Gandhi’s Khadi Movement began in 1918 to combat rural poverty and promote economic independence through the use of locally produced textiles.
The charkha symbolized self-reliance and resistance to colonialism, with Khadi embodying Gandhian values of modesty, discipline, and independence from foreign goods.

Designer-Led Revival of Khadi

Following India’s Independence, the Khadi sector was institutionalised with the establishment of the
Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) in 1957.
The objective of the commission is to provide sustainable rural employment by supplying raw materials, improving production techniques, ensuring product quality, and promoting its sale. Despite these efforts, Khadi began to lose favour with mainstream consumers.

Opportunities and Challenges

The global fashion industry, valued at approximately USD 1.3 trillion, employs over 300 million people globally and contributes significantly to GDP. According to McKinsey FashionScope, India’s apparel market was projected to reach USD 59.3 billion by 2022, making it the sixth-largest worldwide. Key drivers of India’s fashion growth include:

rapid urbanisation
rising disposable incomes
technology-enabled fashion retail
increased brand penetration in Tier II and III cities
growing demand for affordable yet aspirational apparel

Conclusion

Once a symbol of resistance and rural empowerment Khadi— has undergone a remarkable transformation in the modern era. Its revival, driven by sustainability movements, designer innovation, government initiatives, and evolving consumer preferences, has positioned it as a premium textile with significant economic and cultural value.