Minister of MSME Interacts with Khadi Institutions

A meeting was held with representatives of selected khadi institutions to obtain their views and suggestions for improving the efficiency, productivity and functioning of KVI sector by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Shri Dinsha Patel, here today.

To revitalize the Khadi sector a number of initiatives have been taken by the Ministry – US$ 150 million Khadi Reforms Programme assisted by the Asian Development Bank, a flexible scheme of Marketing Development Assistance based on production, and a Scheme for Strengthening Infrastructure of Weak khadi institutions. The outlays for the sector are also expected to increase by around Rs.377 crore compared to 2008-09.

During the interactive session, the participants expressed their appreciation for the number of initiatives taken in the Khadi Sector by Shri Dinsha Patel after taking charge as Minister and they also furnished their frank and honest opinions for improving the efficiency, productivity and functioning of the sector. Among the important suggestions made were strengthening the marketing aspects of khadi sector, welfare of artisans, more active role for KVIC in facilitating availability of Working Capital from Banks, harnessing the potential of khadi as well as providing more autonomy to khadi institutions.

The Minister assured the participants that the suggestions would be looked into and asked for more active involvement, commitment and transparency in functioning of the khadi institutions in order to achieve the goal of promotion of Khadi and Village Industries and improving the lot of spinners, weavers and artisans who are the backbone of the sector.

The Meeting was attended by Secretary, MSME and senior officials of the Ministry.

…RTS/VN