C.M. for strengthening Khadi and Gramudyog Board

Shimla, Mar 28 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal today stressed upon the need for strengthening State Khadi and Gramudyog Board by gearing up its activities.

Speaking in the meeting of the Board, which was held under the Chairmanship here, he said the main objective of constituting the Khadi and Gramudyog Board was to generate employment opportunities at village level and producing quality goods for local consumption, which could lead to economic prosperity.

Mr Dhumal said it would go a long way in bringing about self-reliance and generating feeling of 'Gram Swaraj' and added Khadi and Gramudyog Commission also provided financial assistance. .

Keeping in view the financial limitations of the state, handicraft and small industrial units needed to be encouraged which could help in strengthening the rural economy, he added.

He said Himachal Handicraft Industry has earned a name for itself and Kullu-Kinnauri caps, shawls and 'Chamba rumal' were in demand in the country and abroad. He directed the officers of the Board to speed up the activities for which state government would provide all possible cooperation.

Board's Chief Executive Officer R P Bhardwaj detial the activities of the Board, said that 734 projects worth Rs 4213 lakh were sent to various banks out of which Rs 845 lakh margin money had been released for implementation of 547 projects during current financial year.

UNI AS HS JS1924