‘Make in Himachal’ Products to Get Global Push Under ‘HIM’ Brand: CM Sukhu.
CM inaugurates HIM MSME Fest-2026; State secures over Rs. 5,000 crore investment commitments.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today inaugurated the HIM MSME Fest–2026 at the Ridge, Shimla, asserting that the event is not merely an exhibition but a powerful platform of opportunities for thousands of small entrepreneurs, artisans and start-ups of Himachal Pradesh. He said the fest aims to promote ‘Make in Himachal’ products globally under the unified ‘HIM’ Brand, giving national and international recognition to local and traditional products.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the HIM MSME Fest would help realize the aspirations of thousands of small entrepreneurs, especially women entrepreneurs, artisans and start-ups across the State. The event, being organised by the Industries Department, will conclude on January 5.
The Chief Minister stated that reputed national and international companies would be visiting Himachal Pradesh during the fest, providing artisans, weavers and MSME entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to directly showcase and market their products to global buyers. He added that a hand-made shawl crafted by Himachali artisans, displayed at the fest, has been included in the Guinness Book of World Records, bringing global recognition to the State’s rich craftsmanship and making Himachal Pradesh proud.
Highlighting the State Government’s focus on inclusive growth, the Chief Minister said the fest lays special emphasis on women entrepreneurship and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, which will help rural entrepreneurs access new markets and opportunities. He said special attention is also being given to the greening of MSMEs, which will play a vital role in Himachal Pradesh’s journey towards becoming a green energy State and strengthening the vision of an Atmanirbhar Himachal.
The Chief Minister informed that during the past three years, the State Government has held investor meetings in major industrial hubs such as Dubai, Japan and Mumbai. As a result, Memorandums of Understanding involving investment commitments exceeding Rs. 5,000 crore have been signed. Besides, 683 industrial projects worth Rs. 14,000 crore have been approved, which are expected to generate employment opportunities for around 32,000 people.
He further said that to strengthen MSMEs in rural areas, proposals worth Rs. 1,642 crore have been submitted to the Central Government, out of which Rs. 109.34 crore has been approved so far. Over the last three years, 107 start-ups have been launched in the State, while 407 start-ups are currently at various stages of establishment.
Describing the HIM MSME Fest as a milestone event, the Chief Minister said it would connect Himachal Pradesh’s MSME sector with global markets, investments and modern technologies, perfectly reflecting its theme, “The Craft of the Hills on the Global Stage.” He said the fest serves as a unique convergence point for emerging and established start-ups, where ideas, innovation and investment come together, enabling entrepreneurs to expand their businesses.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister also released a Coffee Table Book and extended his best wishes to all participants. Earlier, he inaugurated and visited various exhibition stalls and showed keen interest in the products on display.
Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan welcomed the Chief Minister and briefed about the three-day itinerary of the fest, which includes interactive sessions. He said priority sectors such as green mobility, defence, pharmaceuticals, dairy, food processing, artificial intelligence, electronic chips and data centres are being promoted to accelerate industrialisation while giving a push to green industries. Strategic dialogues are being held with leading industry players in these sectors.
Dr. Rajneesh, Development Commissioner (MSME), Government of India, lauded the efforts of the State Government in promoting MSMEs. Additional Chief Secretary R.D. Nazim gave a detailed presentation on start-ups, industrial development and departmental schemes, while Commissioner Industries Dr. Yunus presented an overview of the MSME Fest and industrial activities in the State.
A colourful cultural programme was also organised on the occasion.
Among those present were Principal Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Naresh Chauhan, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLAs Malender Rajan and Vivek Sharma, Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Chairman of the State Food Commission Dr. S.P. Katyal, councillors of the Shimla Municipal Corporation and senior officers.
