Gandhian economic thought (6)

The Concept of Swadeshi

Writing retrospectively, Zealey (1958) notes:

At the time of its inception, the constructive programme on Khadi was indeed a stroke of genius.

From nationally point of view:

-      It provided a rallying symbol which the humblest villager could easily understand.

From politically point of view:

-      It was a powerful weapon providing a means whereby a sense of united action could be expressed in concrete form.

From economically point of view:

-      It was whereby the formidable problem of rural under development could be turned to productive use.”

Thus Gandhiji’s central economic concern is the protection of village crafts against further encroachment from foreign industry.

The Swadeshi concept which embodied this concern becomes the progenitor of his entire thinking on economic issues.

Used from paper of  D. M. Nachane