Karnataka Government Employees to Wear Khadi Monthly to Promote National Sentiment

Karnataka government officers and employees will voluntarily wear Khadi on the first Saturday of each month to promote the fabric and foster national pride.

In a bid to promote Khadi, Karnataka government employees will wear Khadi clothing voluntarily on the first Saturday of each month. This initiative aims to encourage the use of Khadi and related products. Employees are also urged to wear Khadi on national days like Independence Day and Republic Day. Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh issued a circular outlining these guidelines.

The circular highlights that this decision aligns with reconnecting public service to India's freedom struggle. It mandates that officers and employees from various state institutions, including government-aided bodies and universities, wear Khadi during official events. The move is expected to foster respect, unity, and a sense of national pride among government staff.

Khadi Promotion Initiative

A meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary discussed the voluntary wearing of Khadi by government employees. The Karnataka State Government Employees Association confirmed this initiative. Employees are encouraged to buy Khadi from government-owned Khadi Village Industries Board shops, where they will receive an additional 5% discount on top of existing offers.

The association specified attire for male employees includes Khadi shirts, trousers, and overcoats, while female employees may opt for Khadi or Khadi silk sarees and chudidars. This initiative will officially launch on Government Employees Day, April 21.

Additional Discounts and Proposals

During the meeting, a proposal was discussed to establish a Government Employees Canteen through Mysore Sales International Limited (MSIL). This canteen would offer essential goods at concessional rates similar to defence canteens. Additionally, extending a 5% special discount from Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) on silk sarees and fabrics to all state employees was considered.

The initiative aims to instil social responsibility towards indigenous products among government staff. The circular hopes this will enhance respect for Indian culture and promote unity among employees.

With inputs from PTI