Himachal CM unveils online platform for SHG products, launches seven food vans

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has taken significant steps to empower rural women by launching an e-commerce platform and providing new income opportunities through food vans. These initiatives aim to support over 3,50,000 women associated with 44,000 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the state.

E-commerce platform for SHGs

On January 4, 2025, CM Sukhu launched an official e-commerce website, himira.co.in, developed by the Rural Development Department. This platform provides a global stage for the products crafted by rural women in SHGs. The goal is to enhance the visibility of these products, helping artisans and entrepreneurs expand their market and increase their earnings through online sales. The Chief Minister expressed his vision of improving and expanding the Him-Era platform further in the future.

The website is designed to ensure that SHGs can directly connect with customers, eliminating the need for intermediaries. CM Sukhu encouraged SHGs to maintain high-quality standards for their products to maximize benefits. He highlighted that gifting Him-Era products to Union ministers and dignitaries showcases the platform’s potential.

In addition to the e-commerce platform, the Chief Minister flagged off seven food vans. These specially designed vans are managed by SHG women and aim to create new income opportunities. Operated exclusively by women, the vans will allow them to enter the food business, helping them achieve financial independence.

The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to empowering women economically. The food vans are expected to operate in various locations, providing diverse culinary offerings while promoting local flavors and traditions.

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Policies for women empowerment

The state government has implemented multiple measures to uplift women. These include reserving 30% of police constable posts for women, raising the legal marriage age for girls from 18 to 21 years, and offering loans to rural women to support household income. Additionally, a scheme involving women’s and youth groups in forest plantation and preservation has been launched, ensuring financial compensation for their efforts.

CM Sukhu emphasized that the policies align with Himachal Pradesh’s culture and environmental priorities. He criticized the previous government for economic mismanagement and distributing freebies worth ₹5,000 crore for electoral gains. Such actions, he claimed, disrupted the state’s economy.

Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh highlighted additional steps to promote SHG products. The Shimla Municipal Corporation has allocated land near the lift for the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). Each district will have a dedicated shop in this space to showcase and sell products. Regular exhibitions and fairs are also being organized to provide SHGs with platforms to connect with a broader audience.

These initiatives underline the government’s focus on economic and social empowerment for women. By combining traditional skills with modern platforms like e-commerce and innovative projects such as food vans, Himachal Pradesh aims to create sustainable livelihoods for its rural population.