Khadi Diwali Fest-2026: Centre Targets Gen-Z to Strengthen Swadeshi Movement, Boosts Market Access for Indian Artisans
The Government of India is advancing its Swadeshi and Vocal for Local agenda by connecting the younger generation with indigenous products and traditional industries. In this direction, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, has organised the ‘Khadi Diwali Fest-2026’ at NDMC Palika Park, Connaught Place, New Delhi, to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call of ‘Har Ghar Swadeshi, Ghar Ghar Swadeshi’ to Gen-Z.
Held under the theme ‘Khadi-wali Diwali’, the festival commenced on October 31, 2026. KVIC Chairman Manoj Goel inaugurated the event as the chief guest. The initiative aims to encourage consumers to prioritise Khadi and Swadeshi products during the festive season while expanding market opportunities for Indian artisans, weavers and rural entrepreneurs.
Key Highlights and Policy Initiatives
The festival offers a special discount of 20 per cent on Khadi products and 10 per cent on Village Industry products. KVIC has also launched a podcast titled ‘Baat Khadi Ki’ to engage young audiences through discussions on Khadi’s heritage, contemporary fashion, innovation and youth entrepreneurship.
According to the KVIC Chairman, the Khadi and Village Industries sector recorded a turnover exceeding ₹1.87 lakh crore in FY 2025-26 and generated employment for more than 2.04 crore people. The Commission has set its sights on achieving a turnover target of ₹2.51 lakh crore.
Governance and Economic Impact
The initiative represents a strategic effort to integrate traditional industries with modern consumer markets. Greater participation by Gen-Z through social media, e-commerce, digital marketing and startups can strengthen branding, expand domestic demand and create new opportunities for rural enterprises.
By linking festive consumption with domestic manufacturing and artisan livelihoods, the initiative reinforces the broader objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Vocal for Local and Viksit Bharat @2047. It also positions Khadi as a contemporary economic and entrepreneurial asset rather than merely a traditional textile.
