Tamil Nadu Increases Government Contribution for Khadi Weavers Fund
The minister also announced the modernisation of khadi markets at Tiruchi, Salem and Thanjavur with new interior design and decoration
Chennai: Handloom and khadi minister M. Vijay Balaji on Tuesday announced an increase of government contribution for the khadi weavers welfare fund from 12 per cent to 16 per cent to improve their livelihood.
Replying to the discussion on the demand for grants to his ministry in the Assembly, the minister also announced the modernisation of khadi markets at Tiruchi, Salem and Thanjavur with new interior design and decoration. He said ten marketing centres would be set up for improving the palm and khadi products.
He said Khadi refers to hand-spun, hand-woven natural fibre cloth of cotton, silk, wool or a blend of two types of yarn. After the introduction of polyester in the market, a blend of 67 per cent cotton yarn and 33 per cent polyester yarn is processed into a fabric called "Polyvastra". Therefore, Khadi now includes three types namely ‘Khadi Cotton’, ‘Polyvastra’ and ‘Khadi Silk’.
Among the various village industries run by the Tamil Nadu Khadi and Village Industries Board, the soap Industry occupies a prominent position and has emerged as one of the most profitable sectors, the minister noted. The bathing soap units produce a wide range of varieties including Kumari, Kurinji Sandal, Kurinji Neem, Mooliga, Nitham, Khadi Fragrance, carbolic and transparent soaps. Among these, “Kumari Soap” has gained exceptional popularity and continues to receive the best market response. Under the brand name ‘Gopuram’, the board produces laundry bar soap, detergent cake, liquid detergent and detergent powder. Liquid products such as “Saaral” shampoo, “Vaigai” hand wash and body wash are also manufactured.
