Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh Seeks DGFT Satellite Office in BBN Corridor to Boost Exports and Industrial Growth
In a significant move aimed at strengthening export infrastructure, the Himachal Pradesh government has requested the Centre to establish a satellite office of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh (BBN) industrial corridor.
In a significant move aimed at strengthening export infrastructure, the Himachal Pradesh government has requested the Centre to establish a satellite office of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh (BBN) industrial corridor.
The proposal was raised by Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan during the Board of Trade meeting held in New Delhi, chaired by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
Export Growth Drives Demand for DGFT Presence
Highlighting the state’s rapid export expansion, Chauhan said Himachal Pradesh’s exports have surged from ₹500 crore in 2003-04 to ₹20,414 crore in 2024-25. He attributed this remarkable growth to the expansion of industrial activities, export-oriented manufacturing and policy initiatives focused on global market integration.
According to the minister, establishing a DGFT satellite office in the BBN industrial belt would provide crucial support to exporters, improve ease of doing business and encourage import substitution.
“The presence of such institutions can significantly strengthen export promotion efforts while enhancing research capabilities and supporting the growth of pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries in the region,” Chauhan stated.
Push for NIPER Campus in Una Bulk Drug Park
The Himachal government also sought the establishment of a satellite campus of NIPER, Mohali, within the upcoming Bulk Drug Park at Una.
The proposal is expected to strengthen research, innovation and skill development in the pharmaceutical sector, which remains one of the key contributors to the state’s industrial economy.
High Logistics Costs Remain a Challenge
Chauhan informed the Board of Trade that high transportation and logistics expenses continue to hamper export competitiveness, particularly in hilly states such as Himachal Pradesh.
He stressed the need for better rail connectivity, upgraded logistics infrastructure and freight support mechanisms to help local industries compete effectively in international markets.
The minister urged the Centre to expedite the Chandigarh-Baddi rail corridor project, stating that it would help operationalise the Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Baddi and substantially reduce transportation costs for exporters.
Focus on GI Products and Local Entrepreneurship
The Industries Minister said Himachal Pradesh currently has 17 Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products, reflecting the state’s rich cultural heritage and unique product identity.
He also highlighted the state’s ‘One District, Three Products’ initiative, which aims to promote local entrepreneurship, value addition and wider market access for indigenous products.
Additionally, Chauhan underlined the importance of developing world-class testing laboratories, quality certification centres and accreditation facilities to help exporters meet international standards.
Centre Assures Support for Export Promotion
Union Minister Piyush Goyal assured support for promoting GI-tagged products and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative under the proposed Export Promotion Mission.
He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to facilitating local products through trade fairs, exhibitions, buyer-seller meetings and export promotion events at both national and international levels.
Chauhan also informed the meeting that detailed project reports for four proposed industrial clusters in Solan, Sirmaur and Una districts are currently being finalised and will soon be submitted to the Centre.
Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) RD Nazeem, were also present at the meeting.
