SRINAGAR: Commemorating 153rd Gandhi Jayanti being observed across the nation, the Jammu and Kashmir Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB) today launched a fortnight novel contact programme ‘Gandhi-Katha' at Grameen Level from Pinjoora village in Tangmarg, Baramulla district.

Pertinently, the programme Gaon-Main Gandhi Katha is aimed at highlighting the ideology and philosophy of Gandhiji like Ahinsa (non-violence), Khadi Swadeshi, Swacchta, Panchayati Raj besides encouragement of rural artisan and weavers through such programmes.

The series of programmes was launched by Secretary and Chief Executive Officer J&K KVIB in presence of Deputy Chief Executive Officer J&K KVIB-KD and Deputy Chief Executive Officer (P/R/S).

The programmes are being organized under the supervision and monitoring of Vice Chairperson J&K KVIB, Dr. Hina Shafi Bhat, at grameen level.

Secretary, while highlighting relevant aspects of Gandhian philosophy, said as Gandhiji believed in Hindustan lives in rural areas as such it is the mandate of KVIB to reach out to the rural population in hinterland and far flung areas. He enjoined upon all the district officers to continue with such programmes in coordination with Rural Development Department, Handicrafts Department and PRIs as well for optimum outcome.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer KD, while highlighting the teachings and values of Mahatma Gandhi, stressed upon encouraging the local produce and its local marketing to economically boost the villages which shall empower the local youth. He also quoted the Gandhian ideology "the prosperous village will ensure prosperous towns and cities which shall in turn make the Country prosperous at all levels".

DDCs, Sarpanchs and Panchs, while speaking on the occasion, emphasized the need to sensitize the rural population about the schemes being implemented by the J&K KVIB for the unemployed and educated youth.