A woman empowered by the Himira project (Photo/ANI)
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], February 9 (Diary Times):
In a major step toward empowering women and strengthening the rural economy, Himachal Pradesh’s e-commerce platform, Himira, is proving to be a game-changer. Launched by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on January 3, 2025, the platform has already delivered over 1,050 online orders to customers in states like Kerala, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, reflecting its nationwide popularity.
The Himira platform is designed to offer products crafted by women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the state. By integrating local craftsmanship into e-commerce platforms such as Paytm and Mystore, the platform is helping rural Himachal’s unique products reach customers across India. This initiative is boosting not only the state’s economy but also the livelihoods of thousands of women who had limited access to broader markets before.
A Boon for Women Entrepreneurs
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized that nearly 30,000 SHG women in Himachal Pradesh now have direct access to livelihood opportunities through the Himira platform. These women are involved in the production of a wide range of products, from hand-woven Himachali textiles to pure and natural food items. Sukhu also highlighted that the platform is an important step towards creating self-employment opportunities, fostering economic growth while preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
“I am gifting Himira products to Union Ministers and other dignitaries to showcase the richness of Himachal’s rural craftsmanship,” Sukhu said, stressing the government’s commitment to aligning policies with the local culture and environment.
Changing Lives and Financial Independence
The impact of the Himira platform is evident in the lives of SHG members, many of whom have seen a dramatic improvement in their financial situations. Take, for example, Jaswinder Kaur from Nalagarh in Solan district. A member of the Sainath SHG, Jaswinder received financial support, including a Rs 60,000 loan for livestock and non-farming activities. She ventured into producing cow dung-based products, which has significantly improved her income. Her monthly earnings, once a modest Rs 1,000, have now surged to Rs 20,000.
“Before this, my monthly income barely covered my children’s school fees. Now, I can not only support my children’s education but also secure our future through the sales of livestock and cow dung products,” Jaswinder shared gratefully.
Similarly, Megha Devi, a member of Shree Ganesh SHG from Sullah in Kangra district, has transformed her passion for Dona-Pattal (leaf plate making) into a thriving enterprise. Her monthly income has skyrocketed from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000. She no longer depends solely on her husband’s earnings and now feels empowered to invest in her family’s future.
“Every sale from my retail shop and each plate I create bring me closer to seeing my children’s dreams come true. This journey has been one of resilience and growth,” Megha said with pride.
Expanding Opportunities Across Himachal
In Lahaul-Spiti’s Keylong, Rigzin Chhoedan, a member of the Kangla Berry SHG, is involved in a range of activities from agriculture and livestock rearing to handicrafts and handlooms. Her monthly income has increased from Rs 4,000 to Rs 25,000, and she plans to expand her business into rural markets.
“The skills I’ve learned have not only improved my income but also changed my entire outlook on life,” Rigzin said, reflecting on her newfound confidence.
In Jhamiyat village of Hamirpur district, Anita Devi’s journey with SHG began with basic savings and training in mushroom cultivation through the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). Her monthly earnings have grown steadily from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000, allowing her to support her family and contribute to her community’s development.
“With hard work and the support of my SHG and the state government, I turned my small savings into a flourishing business. I now empower others to believe in their potential,” Anita shared, her eyes shining with pride.
Looking Ahead
The Himira platform’s success is just the beginning of a broader initiative to uplift women and strengthen the rural economy in Himachal Pradesh. With an expanding range of products, including textiles, food items, and handicrafts, the platform is poised to further enhance market access for rural entrepreneurs, enabling them to thrive in the digital age.
Through initiatives like Himira, the Himachal Pradesh government is not only empowering women but also fostering economic resilience in the state’s rural communities. The future looks bright for the women of Himachal, as they continue to make their mark on both local and national markets.
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