Khadi means simplicity and purity of life. Mahatma Gandhi presented Khadi as a symbol of nationality, said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik while inaugurating the first National Odisha Khadi Utsav 2015 organised by the Odisha Khadi & Village Industries Board here on Thursday.
Patnaik said, “Old and young can use Khadi which can increase employment in the rural areas. Khadi should be a movement and a household name. The quality of Khadi products should be improved.”
He said the Khadi industry can provide employment opportunities to 30,000 people in the State every year. MSME Minister Jogendra Behera said, “The legendry Biju Patnaik used to wear Khadi kurtas. So, use of Khadi products should be promoted in Odisha.” stated that the board has achieved great success after Naveen Patnaik took over reins of the State. Thanks to the management for tying up with Karnataka, he added.
Tourism Minister Ashok Chandra Panda and MlA Bijay Mohanty also spoke on the occasion. Khadi Board brand ambassador actor and MlA Akash DasNayak, actor Sabyasachi Mishra and actress Anu Choudhury urged the people to use Khadi.
The exhibition, which will continue till March 18, has participants from 12 States. Among others, Chief Secretary GC Pati, MlA Priyadarshi Mishra, BMC Mayor AN Jena and Khadi Board President Tejeswar Parida were present.