To empower MSMEs, state hosts 1st international trade show

Himachal Pradesh’s Minister for Industries, Parliamentary Affairs, Labour and Employment, Harshwardhan Chauhan, inaugurated the state’s first-ever international trade exhibition today. Organised under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME)’s Procurement and Marketing Assistance Scheme, the three-day event is being held at the Nahan Chaugan ground in Sirmaur district.

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The exhibition aims to bolster economic activities and promote local businesses by showcasing a diverse array of exhibits from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In his address, Chauhan described the event as a “milestone” for the state, offering artisans, entrepreneurs, and innovators a global platform to showcase their products.

Known for its handicrafts, agriculture, horticulture, handlooms and traditional arts, Himachal Pradesh has brought its diverse industries together at this exhibition. Chauhan highlighted the strategic importance of Nahan as the venue, praising its infrastructure and location.

The minister emphasised that the event would act as a catalyst for regional economic development, fostering talent and innovation while aligning with government initiatives to boost industrial growth. “The MSME sector is the backbone of our economy. This trade fair reflects our commitment to enabling local businesses to thrive in a global marketplace,” Chauhan stated.

He also detailed the government’s efforts to align the state’s industrial policies with emerging trends and central government initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Ease of Doing Business.’ Programmes such as the Mukhyamantri Swavalamban Yojana aim to strengthen infrastructure and skill development.

Chauhan reiterated the state’s commitment to clean and green industrial development. He highlighted the single-window clearance system designed to expedite approvals for projects and urged the central government to extend the industrial package previously granted to the state, which has significantly boosted its industrial development. Lauding the MSME Ministry’s role in supporting the exhibition, Chauhan described it as transformative for local businesses, enabling them to access global markets. He stressed that sustainable industrial growth and innovation remain key priorities for the government.