Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar while addressing the closing ceremony of the National Khadi and Saras Mahotsav 2024- 25 on Tuesday, jointly organized by Jharkhand State Khadi and Village Industries Board and Rural Development Department, Government of Jharkhand, said that this festival is not only a symbol of our culture and traditions, but is also a strong platform for rural development and self- employment.

Describing Khadi as a symbol of the principles of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi, the Governor said that Khadi represents self- reliance and dignity of labour. It has been a symbol of the Indian freedom struggle and even today, it is empowering Indian culture and self-reliance along with providing employment to our artisans emphasised Gangwar.

Referring to the call of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ‘Khadi for Nation, Khadi for Fashion’, the Governor said that under the leadership of Modi, Khadi has got global recognition as it was his initiative to make Khadi a mass movement through the 'Mann Ki Baat' program that has brought positive change in the lives of rural artisans and workers.

“Through this festival, women can not only become self- reliant with the handmade products prepared by women entrepreneurs, but they can also make a significant contribution to the economic prosperity of the country,” added Gangwar.

The Governor congratulated the weavers, handicraftsmen and artisans who participated in this festival and said that the labour and skill of these artisans have demonstrated the immense possibilities of rural enterprises of Jharkhand.

The Governor called upon the general public to adopt Khadi products stating that by adopting these products one can not only empower rural artisans but also contribute towards their economic prosperity. The Governor also congratulated Jharkhand State Khadi and Village Industries Board, Rural Development Department, Jharkhand Government and all the stall holders and artisans for the success of the event.