The 53rd meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Minorities Finance and Development Commission (HPMFDC) was held today under the chairmanship of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil. The board reviewed ongoing initiatives and schemes aimed at uplifting minority communities across the state.
Dr. Shandil praised the encouraging response to awareness camps conducted in various districts, which educated minority groups about the benefits of HPMFDC schemes. The commission offers term loans up to Rs. 30 lakhs for tourism, agriculture, traditional artisan businesses, transport, and service sectors, including ventures such as general stores, restaurants, dairies, medical shops, and more. Education loans up to Rs. 20 lakhs, self-help group loans, and machinery financing are also available.
Highlighting the need for effective outreach, Dr. Shandil urged greater involvement of minority associations to bridge information gaps and maximize scheme benefits. “Active community participation is key to ensuring that developmental schemes reach those who need them most,” he said.
In the fiscal year 2024-25, HPMFDC disbursed Rs. 8.71 crore to 150 beneficiaries, while the Himachal Pradesh Divyang Finance and Development Corporation (HPDFDC) distributed Rs. 4.37 crore to 65 Divyangjans. As of March 31, 2025, HPMFDC has provided loans worth Rs. 106.56 crore to 3,635 beneficiaries, with the majority hailing from Sirmaur, Shimla, and Solan districts. HPDFDC disbursed Rs. 64.05 crore to 1,962 beneficiaries.
The Board also approved the revenue budget for fiscal 2025-26 and finalized appointments for internal and statutory auditors to ensure transparency and accountability.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
