Mahatma Gandhi established the All India Village Industries Association to promote village and rural industries in India.

On 14 December 1934, All India Village Industries Association (AIVIA) also known as Akhila Bharateeya Gramin Udyog Sangh was established by Mahatma Gandhi in Wardha, Maharashtra.

It is to revive village industries because many traditional crafts and small-scale industries were dying under colonial rule.

He aimed to generate rural employment to reduce poverty by creating jobs in villages.

He encouraged villages to produce their own goods to promote economic self-sufficiency instead of relying on imports or industrial products.

He believed that a strong village economy would strengthen India’s overall economy.

He supported ethical and sustainable practices inspired by his philosophy of simplicity and non-exploitation.

J.C. Kumarappa, known for his Economy of Permanence, was chosen by the Congress to lead the movement according to Bapu’s wishes, and Shri Krishnadas Jaju became its first President.

The AIVIA Board included 18 advisors, featuring eminent scientists like Dr. C.V. Raman and Dr. J.C. Bose, as well as prominent leaders such as Rabindranath Tagore, G.D. Birla, M.A. Ansari, and Satish Chandra Das Gupta.
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