With new stores, U.P. aims to integrate khadi with employment

Image used for representative purpose only. | Photo Credit: H. Vibhu Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday (August 23, 2026) said it would launch new khadi outlets across the State to boost sales among youth, and integrate khadi with employment.“Preparations are underway to open new Khadi stores in the State. In a recent meeting, the Minister of Khadi and Village Industries, Silk, Handloom and Textiles, has directed the opening of new khadi stores in locations with a strong base of customers, after surveying all sales centres, training institutes, and assets. The department’s push is for increased availability of khadi products in universities, technical institutions, medical colleges, and public places, with special attention given to the branding, promotion, and marketing of khadi products,” a statement from the government said.In a recent meeting held at the Khadi Bhavan in Dalibagh, Lucknow, the government highlighted its focus on village industries in khadi, handloom, and silk sectors for the rural economy, and generation of employment.“The benefits of schemes should reach eligible beneficiaries on time, and 100% of the budget should be utilised. Targets for all schemes, including the Chief Minister’s Village Industries Employment Scheme and the Pandit Deendayal Village Industries Development Assistance Scheme, along with quality improvement and skill training, should be met within specified time limits. Pending cases should be resolved promptly at the bank level, and loans should be made available to eligible beneficiaries. All training centres should be equipped with modern facilities, and development work should be completed,” senior government officials told the representatives of banks.The Uttar Pradesh Khadi and Village Industries Board is also aiming to complete the construction of a common facilities centre in Kushinagar. “Extensive publicity will be ensured for upcoming Khadi exhibitions and festivals on various platforms,” the statement said. Published - August 23, 2026 10:02 pm IST