Panchkula: Annu, President of Khaki Association, is leading a meaningful grassroots movement that blends sustainability, women empowerment and self-reliance into everyday action. Guided by the three foundational pillars of Environment, Empowerment and Employment (3Es), Khaki Association has steadily emerged as a platform that uplifts local artisans, particularly women, while promoting eco-friendly alternatives and the spirit of “Local for Vocal.”
Khaki Association was founded with the belief that real development begins at the grassroots. The organization works to strengthen communities by reviving traditional skills and transforming them into sustainable livelihood opportunities. Over the years, it has created a strong network of women artisans engaged in stitching eco-friendly khaki bags and related products—items that symbolize simplicity, durability and responsibility toward nature.
Speaking about the vision behind the initiative, Annu said, “Empowerment is not about giving aid; it is about creating opportunities where women can stand on their own feet with dignity. When a woman earns through her own skill, the entire family and community progress.”
Women empowerment remains the cornerstone of Khaki Association’s work. Recognizing the challenges many women face—restricted mobility, domestic responsibilities and lack of access to formal employment—the association introduced a home-based employment model. Raw material is provided directly to women at their homes, allowing them to stitch bags and earn an income without leaving their domestic spaces. This approach has enabled homemakers, widows and women from economically weaker sections to become financially independent and socially confident.
Annu emphasized the importance of this model, stating, “Many women have talent and willingness to work, but circumstances limit them. Our effort is to take work to their homes so that no woman is left behind due to social or economic barriers.”
Environmental sustainability forms the second major pillar of Khaki Association. In response to the growing threat of plastic pollution, the organization actively promotes reusable khaki bags as a practical and eco-friendly alternative. These bags encourage conscious consumer behavior while helping reduce dependence on single-use plastics. Through participation in public platforms, awareness campaigns and community engagement, Khaki Association spreads the message of environmental responsibility.
Highlighting the environmental aspect, Annu said, “Protecting the environment does not always require big actions. Even small choices, like replacing plastic with reusable khaki bags, can create a large collective impact.”
Employment generation, the third pillar of the association, is rooted in fairness and respect for labour. Khaki Association ensures fair wages and consistent work for artisans, treating them as partners rather than beneficiaries. This ethical approach has built trust and long-term association with women artisans, many of whom have experienced a significant improvement in their quality of life.
Recently, Khaki Association showcased its work at the Swadeshi Mela in Panchkula, where the stall attracted widespread attention. Visitors appreciated the quality, durability and simplicity of the khaki bags, while also engaging with the stories of the women behind the products. The mela served as a powerful platform to highlight swadeshi values and connect grassroots artisans with a wider audience.
Reflecting on the participation, Annu remarked, “Platforms like Swadeshi Mela give visibility to the unseen hands behind local products. When people choose swadeshi, they are not just buying an item—they are supporting a family and a future.”
Khaki Association’s work aligns strongly with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. By promoting locally made products and reducing dependence on mass-produced goods, the organization contributes to strengthening local economies and preserving indigenous skills. For Khaki Association, ‘Local for Vocal’ is a sustained movement rather than a temporary slogan.
Looking ahead, the organization is preparing to expand its reach further. In the coming months, women artisans from the Kashmir Valley will also be brought under the Khaki Association initiative, offering them opportunities for skill-based employment and national-level exposure. This step aims to empower Kashmiri women economically while promoting cultural integration and unity.
Speaking about this expansion, Annu said, “Our goal is to connect women artisans across regions. By supporting artisans from the Kashmir Valley, we want to ensure that their skills are recognized and their voices reach national platforms.”
Beyond livelihood initiatives, Khaki Association also works toward social awareness, emphasizing dignity of labour, environmental ethics and inclusive growth. Its integrated approach ensures that empowerment is sustainable, respectful and long-lasting.
As Khaki Association continues its journey under Annu’s leadership, it remains committed to creating meaningful change at the grassroots. Through its focus on environment, empowerment and employment, the organization demonstrates that sustainable development is most effective when it begins locally—one woman, one artisan and one khaki bag at a time.