The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India. It was established in 1957 to promote and develop khadi (hand-spun and hand-woven fabric) and village industries in rural areas.
Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) History
- Pre-Independence Era:
The khadi movement, which aimed to promote the use of hand-spun and hand-woven fabric, gained momentum during India’s struggle for independence. Mahatma Gandhi played a pivotal role in popularizing khadi as a symbol of self-reliance and resistance against British colonialism.
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Post-Independence Establishment:
After India gained independence in 1947, there was a concerted effort to promote rural industries and provide sustainable livelihoods in the rural areas. Recognizing the importance of khadi and village industries in achieving these objectives, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act of 1956 was enacted.
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Formation of KVIC:
On April 2, 1957, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) was officially established. It was tasked with the responsibility of planning, promoting, and organizing programs for the development of khadi and village industries in India.
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Mandate of KVIC:
KVIC’s primary mandate was to provide financial and technical support to artisans, entrepreneurs, and organizations involved in khadi and village industries. It aimed to create sustainable employment opportunities in rural areas and uplift the economic conditions of rural communities.
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Promotion of Khadi:
KVIC focused on the development and promotion of the khadi sector, which involved the production of hand-spun and hand-woven fabric. It played a pivotal role in reviving and sustaining the khadi tradition in India.
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Support for Village Industries:
In addition to khadi, KVIC also promoted various village industries, which encompassed a wide range of small-scale activities such as beekeeping, soap-making, pottery, agro-processing, and more.
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Technical and Financial Assistance:
KVIC provided technical training, skill development, and financial assistance to artisans and entrepreneurs involved in khadi and village industries. It offered loans, grants, and subsidies to support production and marketing activities.
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Market Promotion:
KVIC undertook marketing activities to promote khadi and village industry products both domestically and internationally. It organized exhibitions, fairs, and trade events to showcase the products of rural artisans.
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Role in Employment Generation:
KVIC played a vital role in generating employment opportunities in rural areas. It helped in reducing unemployment and underemployment among rural artisans and entrepreneurs.
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Environmental Sustainability:
KVIC emphasized eco-friendly practices and the use of sustainable materials in khadi and village industries. It promoted green and environmentally responsible production methods.
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Revival of Traditional Crafts:
KVIC supported the revival and preservation of traditional crafts and art forms, ensuring that these cultural heritage elements continued to thrive.
Features and Functions of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC):
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Promotion of Khadi and Village Industries:
KVIC’s primary mandate is to promote and develop khadi and village industries in rural areas. It aims to provide sustainable employment opportunities and improve the economic conditions of rural artisans and entrepreneurs.
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Development of Khadi Sector:
KVIC focuses on the development of the khadi sector, which involves the production of hand-spun and hand-woven fabric. It supports the production, marketing, and sale of khadi products.
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Village Industries Promotion:
KVIC also promotes various village industries, which encompass a wide range of small-scale activities such as beekeeping, soap-making, pottery, agro-processing, and more. These industries are crucial for rural economic development.
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Financial Support and Assistance:
KVIC provides financial assistance and credit facilities to individuals, self-help groups, and organizations involved in khadi and village industries. This includes loans, grants, and subsidies to support production and marketing activities.
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Skill Development and Training:
KVIC offers training programs and skill development initiatives to artisans and entrepreneurs involved in khadi and village industries. These programs aim to enhance their technical and entrepreneurial capabilities.
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Technological Upgradation:
KVIC focuses on the adoption of modern technology and techniques in khadi and village industries to improve productivity, quality, and competitiveness. It provides support for the acquisition of modern machinery and equipment.
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Marketing and Promotion:
KVIC undertakes marketing activities to promote khadi and village industry products both domestically and internationally. It organizes exhibitions, fairs, and trade events to showcase the products of rural artisans.
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Research and Development:
KVIC is involved in research and development activities related to khadi and village industries. It works on developing innovative processes, products, and technologies to enhance the competitiveness of these industries.
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Employment Generation:
By promoting khadi and village industries, KVIC plays a vital role in generating employment opportunities in rural areas. It helps in reducing unemployment and underemployment among rural artisans and entrepreneurs.
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Environmental Sustainability:
KVIC encourages eco-friendly practices and the use of sustainable materials in khadi and village industries. It promotes green and environmentally responsible production methods.
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Revival of Traditional Crafts:
KVIC supports the revival and preservation of traditional crafts and art forms, ensuring that these cultural heritage elements continue to thrive.
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Entrepreneurship Development:
KVIC fosters entrepreneurship by providing guidance, support, and financial assistance to individuals and groups looking to start or expand their ventures in khadi and village industries.