Seven women agri-entrepreneurs get innovative awards
Seven women agri-entrepreneurs from Himachal Pradesh have been honoured with the Innovative Women Entrepreneur Awards for their exceptional dedication and creativity in transforming agricultural practices. The awards were presented during the foundation day celebration of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute Zone-1, held recently in Ludhiana.
These women, supported by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in Chamba, Shimla, Solan and Lahaul & Spiti II, have emerged as trailblazers in their communities. Their contributions span diverse fields such as natural products, food processing, and handicrafts. Through their ventures, they have not only driven regional economic growth but also empowered themselves socially and financially.
In Chamba, three innovative entrepreneurs stood out. Anjali Kumari from Udhapur has branded and marketed a range of products under the Pangi Hills Food Product Order. Her portfolio includes natural forest products, herbs, superfoods, body care items, woollen and cotton clothing, and handmade crafts. Reetu Devi, a resident of Bhandarka, has made her mark in food processing through the Astha Self-Help Group, offering items like Chamba Green Chukh, Red Chukh, and pickles. Babli Kumari, also from Chamba, produces high-quality jute-based products through the Chamunda Self-Help Group.
From Solan, Pinki Devi, a resident of Koti Deora, has been practicing natural farming for four years. She cultivates millet and manages a Natural Produce Centre, offering a range of millet-based food products. Another entrepreneur from Solan, Aarti Shandil, trained in mushroom cultivation under the ARYA project, has ventured into producing biodegradable plates made from ‘Taur’ leaves. Her initiative, which employs 7-8 women, has successfully tapped into online marketplaces to sell its products.
Women from tribal areas also shone brightly. Cherring Butith, from Sumling in Lahaul & Spiti, was recognised for her remarkable work in the seabuckthorn industry. As a member of the Spiti Seabuckthorn Society in Kaza, which comprises 75 farmers, she has been instrumental in producing seabuckthorn-based products like powder, juice, tea, berries, and jam.
Dr Divya Sharma, from Jagothi village in Shimla district, also received the award for her innovative work in food processing. Supported by KVK Shimla, she has been developing products from fruits and forest produce while training other women in the field.
Additionally, Dr Usha Sharma from KVK Shimla was honoured with the ‘Performance Excellence Award’ for her leadership in natural farming, particularly in developing scientific models for apple cultivation.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajeshwar Singh Chandel congratulated the awardees and commended them for becoming role models for women’s empowerment. He also lauded the KVK teams in Chamba, Shimla, Solan, and Lahaul & Spiti II for their efforts in fostering the growth of women entrepreneurs. Dr Inder Dev, Director of Extension Education, also praised the farmers and KVKs for their significant contributions to promoting women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment.
