Shimla witnessed a significant boost for its local economy as Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the HIM MSME Fest–2026 at the iconic Ridge on Saturday. The event marks a strategic push to propel Himachal Pradesh's small businesses and artisans onto the world map.
A Global Platform for Local Craftsmanship
The Chief Minister emphasized that the festival is far more than a typical exhibition. It is designed as a powerful platform to forge global opportunities for the state's small entrepreneurs, skilled artisans, and dynamic start-ups. The core vision is to promote ‘Made in Himachal' products worldwide under the unified ‘HIM' brand, ensuring national and international recognition for local, rural, and traditional MSME goods.
Sukhu highlighted that representatives from several reputed national and international companies are visiting the state during the three-day fest. This provides local entrepreneurs with a rare, direct opportunity to showcase and market their products to potential global buyers, facilitating crucial business connections.
Driving Investment and Employment
The festival has already yielded substantial economic commitments. The CM shared that investment commitments exceeding Rs 5,000 crore have been secured through memorandums of understanding (MoUs). In a major development for the state's industrial landscape, 683 industrial projects worth Rs 14,000 crore have been approved. These projects are projected to generate employment for nearly 32,000 people, providing a significant boost to local livelihoods.
Organised by the state industries department, the festival will continue till January 5. It is themed ‘The Craft of the Hills on the Global Stage' and is expected to be a milestone in connecting Himachal's MSME sector with global markets, modern technologies, and vital investments.
Focus on Self-Reliance and Green Growth
The CM stated that the fest plays a key role in strengthening the vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar Himachal' (Self-Reliant Himachal) by encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth. A special focus is placed on benefiting women entrepreneurs, artisans, and start-ups.
The initiative also emphasizes the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme and the greening of MSMEs. This dual focus supports rural economic growth and aligns with Himachal Pradesh's broader goal of becoming a green energy state.
In a moment of pride, Sukhu highlighted that a handmade Himachali shawl displayed at the fest has been included in the Guinness Book of World Records, bringing global acclaim to the state's exceptional craftsmanship. This achievement underscores the high quality and unique appeal of local products that the festival aims to promote.
