Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the state government is firmly focused on strengthening the rural economy by ensuring market access for products made by women’s self-help groups (SHGs) under the ‘Him Ira’ brand. He said that the newly developed ‘Himachal Haat’ in Shimla will serve as a vibrant platform to showcase authentic products from across the state.
Built at a cost of Rs. 2 crore near the lift area in Shimla, the Himachal Haat will house 25 shops displaying products prepared by women SHGs from all 12 districts. The Chief Minister said the Haat will bring together rural crafts, handlooms, handicrafts, food processing items and traditional Himachali cuisine under one roof, helping increase incomes and promote self-reliance among women.
He added that the state government is also providing food vans to SHGs, enabling them to earn nearly Rs. 50,000 per month. SHGs, he said, have emerged as a strong pillar of women empowerment in Himachal Pradesh.
Providing details, the Chief Minister said that 5,428 self-help groups, 1,257 village organizations and 189 cluster-level federations have been formed in the state. Financial support includes Rs. 36 crore released as revolving funds to 14,410 SHGs, Rs. 41 crore as community investment funds to 7,567 SHGs and Rs. 36 crore as risk mitigation funds benefiting 7,187 families.
He further informed that 109 permanent Him Ira shops have generated business worth Rs. 34.95 crore, while 81 Him Ira weekly markets have recorded sales of Rs. 29.70 crore. For the financial year 2025–26, approval has been granted for 10 blocks under the Livelihood Rural Express Scheme, covering 60 vehicles, out of which 18 vehicles worth Rs. 1.15 crore have already been approved.
Highlighting efforts to preserve traditional arts, the Chief Minister said special initiatives are being implemented through the Himachal Pradesh State Handicrafts and Handloom Corporation. In Kullu district, 11 training centres are providing three-month to one-year skill training to 108 trainees, along with a monthly stipend of Rs. 2,400. Training includes hand knitting, handloom weaving, carpet making and Kullu cap production.
He said these initiatives have enabled local women and men to become self-employed. Emphasising the importance of Kullu’s handicrafts, the Chief Minister stated that they are not only a cultural heritage but also a strong driver of rural development, women empowerment and economic growth. Growing demand and government support have infused new energy into this traditional sector, inspiring youth towards employment and a more secure future, while tourists continue to boost the livelihoods of thousands of artisans.
