Himira empowering rural women, Driving transformation: CM

· Himira products records over 1,000 orders nationwide in a month

SHIMLA- 9 February, 2025The State government’s initiatives to strengthen the rural economy and empower women are showing promising results. Since the launch of the official e-commerce platform Himira (himira.co.in) by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on 3^rd 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 which reflects the growing popularity of the products and the platform among the people nationwide.

With integration into e-commerce, products crafted by women of the Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are now automatically listed on platforms like Paytm and Mystore, making them accessible to buyers across the country. This initiative is bringing the richness and diversity of rural Himachal’s craftsmanship to every corner of India.

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 not accessible. The website features a diverse range of nearly 30 products, from hand-woven Himachali textiles to pure and natural food items.”

The Chief Minister said that the present state government is formulating policies that align with culture and environment of the state, with a strong focus on strengthening the rural economy and promoting self-employment opportunities for the local residents. He added, “I am gifting Himira products to Union Ministers and other dignitaries.” Women associated with SHGs are enthusiastic about the government’s initiative to enhance market access through the e-platform. SHGs across the state have welcomed this step wholeheartedly.

Joining the Sainath SHG has been life changing for Jaswinder Kaur from Nalagarh of Solan district. With financial support and Rs. 60000 loan for livestock and non farming activities, she ventured into producing cow dung products. Her monthly income, once a mere Rs. 1000 has now soared to Rs. 20000. She expressed gratitude to the government for providing this opportunity and platform where she can excel her skills and earn livelihood at the same time, She said that prior to this her monthly income barely covered school fees of her children but now I can support my children's education and invest in our future by selling livestock and cow dung products through this platform. The skills I gained from SHG have truly changed our lives, she added."

Megha Devi from Sullah of Kangra district has a similar story to tell. After getting associated with Shree Ganesh SHG, she started a small enterprise in Dona-Pattal (leaf plate making). Her monthly income has increased from Rs. 5000 to Rs. 20000. Once she was solely dependent on her husband's income, but now her financial situation has transformed. Megha says, "Transforming my passion into livelihood has been a journey of resilience and growth. With every sale from my retail shop and each pattal I create, I see not just profit but the dreams of my children coming to life."

In Keylong, Lahaul-Spiti district, Rigzin Chhoedan found a new opportunity through Kangla Berry SHG. Engaged in agriculture, livestock rearing, handicrafts and handlooms, her monthly income has surged from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 25000. Now she plans to expand her venture and explore new opportunities in rural markets. She says, "It's incredible how learning new skills has changed not my earning but my entire outlook on life."

Anita Devi of Jhamiyat village of Hamirpur district was initially dependent on a private IT job and was earning mere Rs. 5000 per month. Her journey with SHG began with basic savings and through NRLM training in mushroom cultivation, her monthly earning has risen gradually to Rs. 20000. She shares, "Through hard work and the support of my Group and the state government, I turned my small savings into a thriving business. Now, I not only support my family but also empower others to believe in their potential."

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FEATURE-Himachal's infrastructure revolution connecting remote regions

• Achieves historic milestone with 1376 Km of roads and 116 bridges in two years

SHIMLA, 09.02.25-Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a transformative leap in infrastructure and connectivity under the resolute leadership and visionary efforts of the state government. Spearheaded by the Public Works Department (PWD) the commitment of the state government to fostering connectivity, boosting mobility, and uplifting the quality of life in remote regions has emerged as an inspiring model of progress.

Himachal Pradesh is witnessing an infrastructure revolution. In just two years, 1,376 km of roads and 1,192 km of cross-drainage systems have been built which is connecting remote villages and overcoming rugged terrains. Moreover, 1,741ilometers of roads have been metalled and tarred to a superior standard cementing the state’s commitment to ensuring smooth and durable transport links. Beyond mere numbers these developments have brought mobility and economic opportunity closer to the doorsteps of countless families in previously inaccessible areas.

The government has shown unparalleled zeal in addressing critical gaps in road connectivity. Road access has been extended to 61 census villages, ensuring equitable development even for the remotest corners of the state. Furthermore, 116 bridges have been constructed over challenging terrains which has not jus bridged the physical gaps but also enabling communities to stay connected to essential services and markets.

The commitment of the state government to enhancing connectivity is also visible in its focus on Shimla, the state’s capital. The ambitious double-lane tunnel project spanning 890 meters promises to be a game-changer for the bustling hill town. This state-of-the-art tunnel will link Navbahar to the Circular Road near the Indira Gandhi Medical College which would alleviate the traffic congestion and make urban commutes faster and smoother. With Rs. 100 crore already earmarked and a total estimated cost of Rs. 295 crore, this project epitomizes forward-thinking urban planning.

Recognizing the importance of consistent funding to fuel infrastructure growth, the state government allocated a substantial Rs. 2,806 crore to the PWD for this financial year. By the end of September 2024, Rs. 1,238 crore had already been judiciously utilized to turn plans into action. The timely execution of these projects underscores the efficiency and unwavering focus of the government on results.

These achievements reflect the government’s commitment to bridging distances and transforming lives. Improved road networks have enhanced access to healthcare, education, markets and tourism of the state which is strengthening the social and economic fabric while unlocking new opportunities for the prosperity of the people of the state.