Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday said that ‘Make in Himachal’ products are being promoted globally under the ‘HIM’ brand, creating new opportunities for small entrepreneurs, artisans and start-ups across the state. He was speaking after inaugurating the HIM MSME Fest–2026 at the historic Ridge in Shimla.
The Chief Minister described the festival as more than just an exhibition, calling it a strong platform of opportunities for thousands of MSMEs. He said the fest would help rural, traditional and local products from Himachal Pradesh gain national and international recognition, while fulfilling the aspirations of small entrepreneurs, especially women entrepreneurs, artisans and start-ups. He added that the initiative aligns with the vision of building an Atmanirbhar Himachal through innovation, enterprise and inclusive growth.
Organised by the Industries Department, the three-day HIM MSME Fest will conclude on January 5. CM Sukhu said representatives from reputed national and international companies would visit the state during the fest, offering local entrepreneurs a chance to directly showcase and market their products to global buyers. He noted with pride that a handmade Himachali shawl displayed at the fest has been included in the Guinness Book of World Records, bringing global recognition to Himachali craftsmanship.
The Chief Minister said the festival places special emphasis on women entrepreneurship and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, which would strengthen the rural economy by opening new avenues for local entrepreneurs. He also highlighted the focus on greening of MSMEs, stating that such initiatives would play a key role in Himachal Pradesh’s journey towards becoming a green energy state.
CM Sukhu informed that over the last three years, the state government has held investor meets in major industrial hubs such as Dubai, Japan and Mumbai, resulting in investment commitments exceeding ₹5,000 crore. He added that 683 industrial projects worth ₹14,000 crore have been approved so far, expected to generate employment for around 32,000 people.
To strengthen MSMEs in rural areas, proposals worth ₹1,642 crore have been submitted to the Central Government, out of which ₹109.34 crore has already been approved. He further stated that 107 start-ups have been launched in the state during the past three years, while 407 start-ups are currently at various stages of establishment.
Describing the fest as a milestone, the Chief Minister said HIM MSME Fest–2026 would connect Himachal Pradesh’s MSME sector with global markets, investments and modern technologies, reflecting its theme “The Craft of the Hills on the Global Stage”. He said the event serves as a unique convergence point where ideas, innovation and investment come together, enabling entrepreneurs to expand their businesses.
On the occasion, CM Sukhu also released the ‘HIM Innovation Coffee Book’ and honoured several entrepreneurs. Earlier, he visited various exhibition stalls and interacted with participants.
Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan welcomed the Chief Minister and outlined the three-day programme, which includes interactive sessions. He said priority is being given to sectors such as green mobility, defence, pharmaceuticals, dairy, food processing, artificial intelligence, electronic chips and data centres to accelerate industrial growth with a focus on sustainability.
Dr. Rajneesh, Development Commissioner for MSME, Government of India, appreciated the state government’s efforts to promote MSMEs. Additional Chief Secretary R.D. Nazim and Commissioner Industries Dr. Yunus gave detailed presentations on start-ups, industrial development and departmental schemes. A cultural programme was also organised on the occasion.
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Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
