Health Ministry asks AIIMS, central govt hospitals to use khadi soap, linen

New Delhi: Central government hospitals across the country, such as AIIMS, have been asked to purchase khadi products – from soaps to medical doctors' coats, soaps and bed and bath linen.

As per reports, the Health Ministry order, issued on Wednesday, covers at least 23 hospitals, including PGI Chandigarh, Jipmer Puducherry and Nimhans Bengaluru, apart from AIIMS.

In total, a listing of 45 objects has been circulated for the “distinctive” use of hospitals and self sufficient institutes associated with the well Health Ministry. The objects in the list include blankets, quite a lot of types of soaps, curtains, robes for victims and docs, amongst others.

The listing was finalised in accordance with the advice of a committee set up last year. It is said that this is the largest institutional order for the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), the agency accountable for promoting khadi.

The Health Ministry's move to adopt khadi in the healthcare sector will help purchases of goods worth at least Rs 150 crore by the health sector.

"The ministry of health adopting khadi for hospitals and staff is a significant symbol of khadi being the most natural and organic skin-friendly fabric.

“JP Nadda's example of prescribing khadi for hospitals and staff is a significant symbol of khadi being the most natural and organic skin-friendly fabric,” KVIC chairman VK Saxena said while confirming the health ministry order.

medical staff will result in purchases of Rs 150 crore by the health ministry. It will have a compounding effect of livelihood support it gives to khadi artisans,"

He added that the move will also result in purchases of Rs 150 crore by the Health Ministry and have a compounding effect of livelihood support it gives to khadi artisans.