Himira Products Record Over 1,000 Orders Nationwide in a Month
The Himachal Pradesh government’s initiatives to strengthen the rural economy and empower women are yielding promising results. Since the launch of the official e-commerce platform Himira (himira.co.in) by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on 3rd January 2025, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Over 1,050 online orders have already been successfully delivered to customers across Kerala, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, reflecting the growing popularity of both the products and the platform.
With e-commerce integration, products crafted by Self-Help Group (SHG) women are now automatically listed on platforms like Paytm and Mystore, making them accessible to buyers across India. This initiative is bringing the richness and diversity of rural Himachal’s craftsmanship to every corner of the country.
Chief Minister Sh. Sukhu stated, “Through this digital platform, nearly 30,000 SHG women across the state have gained direct access to livelihood opportunities that were previously unavailable. The website features a diverse range of nearly 30 products, from hand-woven Himachali textiles to pure and natural food items.”
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state government is committed to strengthening the rural economy and promoting self-employment opportunities for local residents. He added, “I am gifting Himira products to Union Ministers and other dignitaries.” Women associated with SHGs have warmly welcomed the government’s initiative, as it enhances market access through the e-platform.
Transforming Lives Through SHGs
- Jaswinder Kaur from Nalagarh, Solan district, joined Sainath SHG and took a ₹60,000 loan for livestock and non-farming activities. By producing cow dung products, her monthly income has increased from ₹1,000 to ₹20,000. She expressed gratitude to the government, saying, “Before this, my earnings barely covered my children’s school fees. Now, I can support their education and invest in our future.”
- Megha Devi from Sullah, Kangra district, joined Shree Ganesh SHG and started a Dona-Pattal (leaf plate making) enterprise. Her income grew from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per month. Once financially dependent on her husband, she now says, “With every sale and each pattal I create, I see not just profit but my children’s dreams coming to life.”
- Rigzin Chhoedan from Keylong, Lahaul-Spiti district, joined Kangla Berry SHG and engaged in agriculture, livestock rearing, handicrafts, and handlooms. Her income rose from ₹4,000 to ₹25,000 per month, and she now plans to expand her venture. She says, “Learning new skills has changed not just my earnings but my entire outlook on life.”
- Anita Devi from Jhamiyat, Hamirpur district, once earned ₹5,000 per month from a private IT job. After receiving NRLM training in mushroom cultivation, her income increased to ₹20,000 per month. She shares, “Through hard work and government support, I turned my small savings into a thriving business. Now, I not only support my family but also inspire others.”
The Himira initiative is a significant step in the state government’s mission to empower rural women, boost self-employment, and promote Himachal’s traditional craftsmanship nationwide.
