The Economy of Permanence: A Quest for a Social Order Based on Non-violence (स्थायी अर्थतन्त्र)

Economy of Permanence
6. Cotton and Wool
In areas where cotton can be grown adequate lands must be assigned for
growing at least 127 lbs. of lint per head of the population and its spinning and
weaving should be organised on the lines indicated by the programme of work
followed by the All-India Spinners' Association.
Similarly, in sheep rearing areas production of woolen goods should be
encouraged by aids to sheep-breeding, grading of wool, etc.
7. Leather Tanning
Export of raw hides and skins from India are amongst the largest in the world. If
we can convert all this raw material into leather ourselves we shall be
providing occupation to millions of Harijans. Time being the essence of tanning,
much finance is needed. Hence the work must be done co-operatively.
Societies should purchase the hides, etc., and pay piece-work wages on warious
processes and market the goods either as finished leather or as manufactured
articles.

1. Leather is being tanned in all provinces, but all are not of equally good
   quality. Calcutta 'Chrome¹ and Madras 'Gavi', which are considered to be of
   standard quality, are not attempted elsewhere. Other varieties are far
   inferior to these two. The reasons for this should be found out and the same
   standard of tanning should be introduced everywhere.
2. Export of raw hides and skins should discouraged by Government levying a
   very heavy duty on their export.
3. A cart for carrying the carcasses should be supplied by Co-operative
   Societies at nominal cost to a group of chamars. At present, for want of
   such conveyance, the carcasses are dragged on the ground. It is estimated
   that this process reduces the value of the leather by about 50 per cent.
4. The circumstance under which the industry is now carried on are very
   unhygienic and demands a complete reorganization. This can be brought
   about if proper arrangements are made at a site a little away from the
   village dwelling places, for buiding sheds, pits, drainage, supply of water,
   www.mkgandhi.org Page 126