Dharamsala gets first outlet of Him Era shop to boost SHG products

Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa has directed rural development and panchayat officials to take effective steps in branding and marketing products made by self-help groups (SHGs) to enhance the economic condition of rural women. He made these remarks while inaugurating the first Him Era shop on the DC Office premises in Dharamsala.

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Bairwa emphasised that SHGs in the Dharamsala sub-division will now have a dedicated space to sell their products through Him Era shops. These outlets will play a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy by providing a platform for women engaged in organic product manufacturing.

To ensure quality and market appeal, SHG members have been trained in hygiene and product preparation, and measures have been taken to improve packaging. Him Era shops are being established in a phased manner across the district, with outlets already set up in Kangra and Nagrota sub-divisions. Plans are also in place to expand the initiative to other sub-divisions.

Additionally, a Him Era website has been launched to facilitate online sales. All SHGs are being integrated into the platform to enable future digital marketing and e-commerce opportunities. The Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Departments have been tasked with monitoring sales performance and addressing any challenges to ensure the success of this marketing model.

Bairwa also instructed officials from the Horticulture and Agriculture Departments to collaborate with the Rural Development Department to develop a plan for selling organic horticulture and agricultural products through Him Era shops.

Earlier, Project Officer Chandra Veer welcomed the DC and provided an overview of the Him Era initiative.