The national flag unit at Bengeri in Hubballi, run by Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha (KKGSS), is struggling after the government allowed polyester flags. Shantha Basavaraj Gundgal, who supports her family through this work, said, “This work provided me with a stable income.” But now sales have dropped, and her loan repayments worry her. Another worker, Ratna Harvi, said her income shrank from ₹6,000-7,000 to half. Annapoorna Doddmani, who manages the unit, noted, “We have received fewer orders compared to previous years.” The key problem is the amendment to the Flag Code of India allowing polyester and machine-made flags. Polyester flags are cheaper and available in sizes not allowed for khadi flags, hitting khadi flag sales hard. Shivanand Mataphati, KKGSS secretary, said they face pressure to cut staff but are trying to keep women working by shifting them to other khadi units. Sales fell from ₹3.94 crore in 2022-23 to ₹1.21 crore in 2024-25. This year, only ₹65.51 lakh worth flags were sold by December. Despite repeated requests, the Centre has not reversed the amendment. To save khadi flag making, Santosh Naragund and others launched the 'Fly Khadi Tricolour, Buy Khadi Tricolour' campaign. They aim to boost sales via e-commerce and raise awareness on social media. Lingaraj Dharwadshettar said, “Khadi flags are being promoted through various social media platforms.” More details at tinyurl.com/flykhaditricolour.