2007 - Khadi and Village Industries Commission | Commemorative Coin

The 3rd commemorative coin of 2007 was released to celebrate 50 Years of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission.

The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), established in 1956 by an Act of Parliament, has long served as one of India’s most significant institutions dedicated to promoting rural employment, self-reliance, and sustainable development. Rooted in Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of swadeshi and decentralized production, the organization carries forward the philosophy that economic progress must begin in the villages. By 2007 and beyond, KVIC continued to play a vital role in nurturing traditional craftsmanship, strengthening local livelihoods, and empowering artisans across the country.

Khadi, more than a fabric, represents a symbol of India’s freedom movement and a reminder of the power of self-sufficiency. KVIC works tirelessly to preserve this heritage by supporting spinners and weavers through improved training, modernized tools, and assured marketing platforms. From cotton and silk varieties to naturally dyed and eco-friendly collections, khadi products have reached households across India, appreciated for their comfort, durability, and cultural value. The commission also focuses on generating employment through village industries such as pottery, bee-keeping, soap and handmade paper production, leatherwork, carpentry, and traditional crafts that reflect India’s rich rural ingenuity.

Beyond production, KVIC plays a key role in policy-making, skill development, and financial support. It facilitates access to credit, offers subsidies through schemes like the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), and supports the creation of micro-enterprises that uplift rural families. These initiatives strengthen local economies while reducing migration to urban areas, ensuring that employment opportunities are available at the village doorstep. The commission also works on improving quality standards, enhancing branding, and expanding market linkages so that products made in rural India can compete confidently in modern marketplaces.

Environmental sustainability remains an inherent part of KVIC’s mission. Many of its village industries rely on natural, renewable, or low-energy resources, making them eco-friendly alternatives to mass industrial production. Hand-spun fabric, handmade soaps, natural cosmetics, honey, and clay products are examples of goods produced with minimal environmental impact. Through this approach, KVIC not only preserves traditional skills but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable economy.

Over the decades, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission has grown into a bridge between India’s rich rural heritage and its evolving economic aspirations. With continuous innovation, improved marketing, and government support, KVIC continues to empower artisans, preserve traditional skills, and strengthen the rural economy. Its work reflects a philosophy that economic development is most meaningful when it uplifts communities, protects culture, and sustains livelihoods.

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