The industries department has formulated a Rs 44.457-crore plan to bring khadi to the forefront and make it a brand in the state.

Industries minister Bhim Singh on Thursday said National Institute of Fashion Technology-Patna (NIFT) would be handed over a sum of Rs 92 lakh to work on the fabric's (khadi) designing, printing and branding in the next three years.

'The government has come out with a full-fledged plan to modernise the khadi industry in the state. The plan would be implemented in the next three years. It involves helping institutions that work in the khadi sector by providing them monetary benefits. Also providing training to newcomers in the field. The motive is to develop khadi into a trendy and popular brand so that it attracts people of all age groups, including the youth,' Singh said.

A sum of Rs 12.96 crore has been earmarked for different institutes and committees working on khadi products.

He added: 'The amount will be provided to them for the purchase of modern handlooms and powerlooms. The government would first verify the committees and institutions. Then the state government would provide 90 per cent of the cost of the equipment to them. For raw materials for khadi, Rs 29.25 crore has been earmarked. The committees will be provided the amount at loans at an easy 4 per cent interest,' the minister added.

In Bihar, one among the main districts known for khadi is Madhubani.

However, continuous neglect and lack of government support has hit the industry hard.

'The government wants Bihar's khadi to become a brand in the state. The plan is to make it very popular among the masses and National Institute of Fashion Technology-Patna has been entrusted with the job. They will be working on the fabric, giving them the modern touch and develop it as a brand,'the industry minister said.

The institute has started work in this regard.

'The marketing and advertising is very important and the department would appoint a project management unit for it. Their job would be to hold exhibitions and fairs so that khadi from Bihar can be exhibited and advertised properly,' Singh added.