Tamil Nadu Hikes Khadi Weavers Welfare Fund Share to 16 Per Cent

Handloom and Khadi Minister M. Vijay Balaji on Tuesday announced in Chennai an increase in the state government's contribution to the khadi weavers welfare fund from 12 per cent to 16 per cent to support and improve their livelihoods.

Speaking in the state Assembly while replying to the discussion on the demand for grants to his ministry, the minister shared several initiatives aimed at upgrading khadi infrastructure and promoting village industries across Tamil Nadu.

As part of the modernization drive, the state government will modernize khadi markets located in Tiruchi, Salem, and Thanjavur, outfitting them with new interior design and decoration. Minister Balaji also stated that ten new marketing centres would be established to improve the sales and distribution of palm and khadi products.

Addressing the nature of the sector, the minister noted that khadi refers to hand-spun, hand-woven natural fibre cloth made from cotton, silk, wool, or a blend of two yarn types. Following the introduction of polyester into the market, a blend comprising 67 per cent cotton yarn and 33 per cent polyester yarn is processed into a fabric known as "Polyvastra". As a result, khadi produced today spans three primary categories: Khadi Cotton, Polyvastra, and Khadi Silk.

The minister also highlighted the performance of various village industries operated under the Tamil Nadu Khadi and Village Industries Board. Among these enterprises, the soap manufacturing industry holds a prominent position and has emerged as one of the board's most profitable sectors.

Bathing soap units run by the board produce several varieties, including Kumari, Kurinji Sandal, Kurinji Neem, Mooliga, Nitham, Khadi Fragrance, carbolic, and transparent soaps. Among these products, "Kumari Soap" has achieved exceptional popularity and continues to record strong market demand.

Additionally, the board manufactures laundry bar soap, detergent cake, liquid detergent, and detergent powder under the brand name "Gopuram". It also produces liquid personal care items, including "Saaral" shampoo as well as "Vaigai" hand wash and body wash.