UGC asks universities and colleges to use khadi as ceremonial dresses

The University Grants Commission has asked colleges and universities to use Khadi for ceremonial dresses worn on special occasions. The UGC in a circular highlighting the Prime Minister’s message to use khadi emphasized that the handloom must be revived. The circular stated that Mahatma Gandhi used Khadi as a weapon during the struggle for independence which is why the handloom is also known as Liveries of Freedom.

The circular has further stated that using handlooms like khadi will give a sense of pride about being Indian and also be a comfortable piece of clothing in the hot and humid weather. The circular also encourages all the universities and colleges to use khadi or other handloom textiles for occasions which include convocations. The UGC in the circular has requested the universities and colleges to consider using the fabric and also seek appropriate action for its adoption.

Delhi University Professor while speaking about the circular issued stated that the circular is interested as it did not use the word mandatory but expects the universities to take necessary action. The professor further stated that they are not against khadi or handloom fabrics but believe that the universities and colleges need to be left with the choice on what they wish to adopt. He also added that it is an indirect directive of the UGC to fall in line and it does not symbolize Indian pride like the UGC wants the institutions to believe.

There have been agitations over changing the convocation dress from the Western Styled gown and square cap to a more traditional one. Some of the institutions which include IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, NIT Hamirpur, and Gujarat Universities have already adopted khadi for their respective convocation ceremonies.

The circular signed by UGC secretary Rajnish Jain, states that Khadi and handloom products are an integral part of Indian culture and heritage and are also a source of livelihood for lakhs of handloom weavers from rural areas.

The country’s prime minister in one of his addresses had asked the people to adopt the fabric to help the weaving community.

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