The University Grants Commission, a statutory body under India’s Ministry of Education, has asked higher educational institutions to use khadi products at felicitation ceremonies. The Commission said this practice will help showcase India’s textile tradition and promote local artisans and authors.
THE DIRECTIVE: The order was issued by UGC Secretary Manish Joshi on 15 February. The order said:
- In keeping with the thrust on Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India), khadi products such as angavastram, shawl, etc. which are eco-friendly may be used for felicitation purposes. [An angavastra (plural, angavastram) is a traditional shoulder cloth or stole worn by men.]
- "Such a practice while reaffirming our links with freedom struggle, also showcases our appreciation for our nation's rich textile tradition. Further, the incorporation of these practices would help in promoting and empowering our local artisans."
- "The HEIs (higher education institutions) are requested to consider incorporating these practices while felicitating guests/ dignitaries during seminars, conferences, workshops, and other such events."
- The order has been sent to the Vice-Chancellors of all Universities Principals of all Colleges/Institutes.
EARLIER DEVELOPMENTS: The latest UGC order has a backdrop:
- On 15 January this year, the Commission drew attention to an earlier circular of 15 July 2015 and a subsequent reminder of 7 June 2019, in which universities were requested to consider using ceremonial robes made out of handloom fabrics for special occasions such as convocations, etc.
- It said: “Apparel made from handloom fabrics is more comfortable in India's climate”
- The Commission noted that many universities had heeded the UGC’s suggestion and had already switched to handloom fabrics for ceremonial attire. “However, it is noted that some universities have still not changed their ceremonial dress code during the convocation. It is again requested that the universities consider switching to handloom fabrics as ceremonial dress.”
- The use of handloom fabrics, the UGC said, would not only instil a sense of pride in being Indian but also promote the handloom industry in the country, which provides employment opportunities to manly people living in rural areas.
- Universities were also requested to share the action taken in this regard, along with photographs, videos, etc., on the UAMP portal at https://uamp.ugc.ac.in.
- The 2015 circular had reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for the use of khadi. It urged all universities to consider using khadi and/or other handlooms for ceremonial dresses prescribed for special occasions like convocations.
- “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has advocated the use of khadi and also emphasised the revival of handlooms. Mahatma Gandhi used khadi, a hand-spun and handloom cloth as a weapon during struggle for Indian Independence and hence, it is also known as 'Liveries of Freedom',” UGC secretary Rajnish Jain noted in the circular.
- The Commission had then also directed vice-chancellors to pass on the advisory on the use of khadi and other handloom fabrics to the colleges affiliated to their universities.
