Bengaluru, January 30: The Karnataka government has issued a fresh circular encouraging all state employees to wear Khadi attire on the first Saturday of every month. The initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, aims to promote the local Khadi industry and provide much-needed support to weavers across the state. While the directive is currently framed as a voluntary appeal rather than a mandatory rule, the government has urged senior officials and staff across all departments to participate actively in the movement.

The move is part of a broader effort to revive traditional handloom heritage and boost the economic livelihood of those involved in the Khadi and Village Industries sector. Government officials believe that consistent patronage from the state's large workforce could create a significant surge in demand for locally produced fabric. Karnataka Prisons New Rules: Ban on Outside Food and Bedding From Families, Check Details.

Karnataka Government Urges Employees To Wear Khadi

The Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR) released the circular following discussions on how to better integrate traditional crafts into modern governance. By selecting the first Saturday of each month, the government hopes to create a visible and regular demonstration of support for the "vocal for local" sentiment.

Officials noted that the Khadi industry has faced stiff competition from synthetic fabrics and power looms. The government’s appeal is intended to ensure that the craftsmanship of Karnataka’s weavers remains sustainable and that the sector receives the institutional backing necessary to thrive. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Loses Cool as ‘DK, DK’ Slogans Raised at MGNREGA Protest Rally (Watch Video).

Unlike a formal uniform policy, the circular clarifies that this is an "earnest request" to foster a sense of pride in national heritage. Employees are encouraged to wear Khadi shirts, sarees, or other traditional garments to work on the designated days.

Several employee associations have reportedly welcomed the move, viewing it as a symbolic yet practical way to contribute to the rural economy. However, some staff members have raised questions regarding the availability and cost of authentic Khadi, prompting the government to consider organizing Khadi exhibitions and sales at major administrative hubs like Vidhana Soudha.

Karnataka has a deep-rooted history with Khadi, being home to several historic production centers, including the Federation of Khadi and Village Industries in Hubballi. This latest directive aligns with previous state and national efforts to popularize the fabric, which was famously championed by Mahatma Gandhi as a symbol of self-reliance.

In the past, various state governments have introduced similar "Khadi days," but the Karnataka administration’s specific focus on a fixed monthly schedule aims to turn the practice into a long-term habit rather than a one-time event.

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