Crafting success: New ‘Him Ira’ outlet showcases local talent

In a significant push to promote rural entrepreneurship and self-reliance, the Dharamsala Development Block has achieved another milestone under the National Rural Livelihood Mission with the inauguration of its third ‘Him Ira’ shop, located near the sacred Chamunda Mandir in Kangra district.

The new outlet, inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa, underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening the rural economy. “We are dedicated to enhancing rural livelihoods, as envisioned by the Chief Minister. ‘Him Ira’ shops are helping turn that vision into a reality,” Bairwa told The Tribune.

The shop is housed in a newly renovated building that once served as a ‘Grameen Bhandar’, refurbished at a cost of Rs 14.59 lakh. It follows the success of two other Him Ira stores near the District Panchayat Office and the DC Office in Dharamsala, which together have recorded sales of Rs 1.11 lakh in just three months.

The Chamunda store will serve as a vibrant marketplace for self-help groups (SHGs) and artisans from Kangra and surrounding regions, showcasing bamboo crafts, pottery, Kangra paintings, handloom products and herbal cosmetics. Seven SHGs from areas, including Rait, Jandutta, Sulah and Dharamsala, are actively participating.

In addition to retail space, the facility includes 1,670 sq ft of storage and a dedicated workshop area. Art and craft training sessions are also planned, with a recent highlight being six students from Lovely Professional University completing a 25-day bamboo workshop at the centre.

Ramesh Chand, a local advocate for traditional crafts, noted, “Its proximity to Chamunda Mandir ensures high footfall, offering artisans a valuable opportunity to expand their reach and income.” The initiative is being hailed as a game-changer for grassroots empowerment in Himachal Pradesh.