Hills of Hope: Stories of Women Micro-Entrepreneurs Building a Self-Reliant Himachal
In the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, women micro-entrepreneurs are quietly transforming kitchens, farms, and traditional crafts into thriving enterprises. From pickles and chutneys prepared in village homes to organic farming ventures and handwoven woolens, these initiatives embody resilience and innovation. Their enterprises not only generate income but also empower other women in their communities, creating networks of confidence and solidarity. Supported by government schemes these ventures are scaling beyond local markets to reach national platforms. The stories of Himachal’s women micro-entrepreneurs highlight a powerful truth: when skill meets determination, even small steps can spark social change, weaving self-reliance and pride into the fabric of mountain life.
From Freelancer to Institution: Ishleen Kaur’s Inspiring Journey
Once a young woman working alone with just a laptop and dreams, today she has become the face of a powerful learning institution. This is the story of Ishleen Kaur, an entrepreneur who traveled the path from instability to stability, and from uncertainty to confidence.
In 2021, Ishleen Kaur began her career as a freelancer in the field of sales and marketing. Work was coming in, income was steady, but something felt incomplete—there was no recognition, no stability, and no clear direction for the future. The constant race to find new clients each month made her realize that beyond individual gigs, it was necessary to build something lasting and impactful.
This gave birth to The Apex Institute of Learning and Development. The purpose was clear: to help business owners, founders, and professionals move forward through structured systems rather than scattered efforts. Ishleen believes, “The journey from freelancer to business owner was not easy, but today it has become my greatest identity.”
The early days were not easy. From sales to training delivery, she handled every responsibility herself. But her consistent effort to deliver results gradually moved her from uncertainty to authority.
Today, The Apex Institute works with a strong six-member team, has achieved an annual turnover of nearly ₹25 lakh, and has expanded its reach beyond India to the USA, UAE, and Australia. Ishleen now contributes by consulting IT founders and service business owners, helping accelerate their growth.
Ishleen Kaur’s journey is not just a story of entrepreneurial success—it is an inspiration for thousands of young people who are struggling with instability but secretly dream of building an institution of their own. Her story shows that with clear intent and consistent hard work, even one individual can become the foundation of an entire institution of change.
From Kitchen to National Recognition: The Journey of Struggle, Flavor, and Success of Nishu Lata Sood
What once began in a modest kitchen in Ambota village with the aroma of traditional pickles and chutneys has today reached markets across the country. This is the story of Nishu Lata Sood—who, through hard work, patience, and confidence, turned Nishu Food Products into a trusted name.
In 1998, when resources were limited and market knowledge was still in its early stages, Nishu Lata Sood laid the foundation of her enterprise with traditional homemade recipes. Starting with pickles, chutneys, preserves, and homemade snacks, this small effort gradually grew, driven by her dedication and commitment to quality.
She never compromised on taste. While keeping tradition at the core, she embraced innovation over time. By introducing millet-based products, she connected her brand with modern nutrition and evolving consumer preferences. That is why what began at home transformed into a recognized brand, with products now available in retail stores, online platforms, and through other brands.
But Nishu Lata Sood’s story is not limited to business success. She is a true example of “pay it forward.” As a master trainer, she has trained hundreds of women in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Punjab in food processing and entrepreneurship, enabling them to become self-reliant and realize their dreams.
Strategic support from the Chief Minister’s Startup Scheme and CSIR-IHBT Palampur took her business to new heights. This assistance not only strengthened her technically and commercially but also expanded her confidence.
Nishu Lata Sood herself says, “My journey shows that with passion, patience, and the right support, women can turn their dreams into reality.” Her journey today inspires thousands of women who wish to step beyond the threshold of their homes and create their own identity.
The story of Nishu Food Products is not just about taste—it is a story of determination, struggle, and empowerment, proving that even a small step taken with the right intent can spark big change.
A Dream Rooted in Forests, Strength Built by Women: The Inspiring Story of Mountain Bounties
This is not the story of a big corporate idea, but of a mission born out of empathy, understanding, and partnership. Grown in the hills of Himachal, Mountain Bounties today is a recognized brand, but its roots lie in the commitment to protect forests and provide dignified livelihoods to rural women.
The driving force behind this initiative is Mamta Chander. Mountain Bounties did not begin with a business plan, but with a question: Why are the forests shrinking? The answer was found in the villages. While working in the Kullu region, it became clear that lack of fuel and employment had made women heavily dependent on forests. The solution also emerged there—if women were provided with sustainable, alternative livelihoods using local resources, the pressure on forests would naturally reduce.
This led to the birth of an NGO called Jagriti and a cooperative model, which worked with village women to identify surplus local products. Suggestions from women brought forward items like apricot and peach oils, which even attracted international attention. Later, with expert support, wild plants such as rosehip, nettle, and apricot were transformed into value-added products—honoring taste, health, and nature together.
Mamta Chander says, “Sustainability is not the achievement of one person, but the result of a shared system where women support each other.”
Today, Mountain Bounties relies entirely on raw materials collected by village women. Over more than 15 years, the initiative has built a strong supply chain, retail business, NGO network, and women’s cooperatives.
Products carrying the fragrance of the Himalayas have reached not just markets, but also delivered a message—that protecting nature and developing livelihoods can go hand in hand. The journey of Mountain Bounties shows that when solutions are crafted together with communities, they are both sustainable and inspiring.
This is not just the story of a brand, but of women’s collective strength, forest conservation, and Himalayan self-reliance—where every product carries the scent of the mountains and the sparkle of hope.
Commitment to Health Through Chemical-Free Farming: The Green Success Story of Agriva Naturally
While most farmers consider dependence on chemicals in farming a necessity, a different vision took shape in the small village of Behar-Bithal in Amb area of Una district, Himachal Pradesh. This is the story of Reeva Sood, who proved that farming can not only be done in harmony with nature but also transformed into a powerful brand.
Founded in 2022, Agriva Naturally was built on a simple yet strong belief—that healthy living begins with pure and honest farming. With this conviction, Reeva Sood distanced herself from chemicals and adopted completely chemical-free and organic farming.
Today, her farm grows high-value, nutrient-rich crops that are relatively new to Himachal Pradesh, such as dragon fruit, figs, ashwagandha, and stevia. Farming based on organic manure, respect for seasonal cycles, and soil conservation has not only preserved the health of the land but also enriched the produce with natural nutrition.
The unique identity of Agriva Naturally lies not just in farming but also in value addition. From dragon fruit grown in the fields to fresh, natural, chemical-free juices, the brand maintains full control over the entire quality chain. This is why Agriva Naturally today is not just a farm but a trusted name in health and wellness.
Reeva Sood says, “We believe in working with nature, not against it. Our promise is to deliver pure, healthy products straight from the farm—for a better future.”
Today, Agriva Naturally is not only creating a new identity for exotic superfruits in Himachal Pradesh but also sending out a message—that with clear vision and strong determination, sustainable farming is the path to the future. This story is not just about farming, but about health, innovation, and a self-reliant Himachal, where every fruit reflects respect for nature and the pride of the farmer.
From Kitchen to Livelihood: Umang Brings Economic Freedom to 50 Women
This is not just the story of an enterprise, but a testament to confidence, collective strength, and social change. In Himachal Pradesh, Umang has become a symbol of empowerment, recognizing the hard work and skills of women who are now stepping beyond the kitchen walls to write new chapters of self-reliance.
This inspiring initiative is led by Reena Chandel. Despite holding academic qualifications like M.A. and B.Ed., she chose entrepreneurship over a conventional job. In 2016, she established a self-help group with a clear purpose—to connect women with sustainable livelihoods beyond the domestic sphere.
The journey began at home with very limited resources. Using local fruits, unique products like papaya peda and amla barfi were created. Gradually, these efforts bore fruit, and today Umang offers a range of more than 10 food products, including pickles, jams, and chutneys.
Umang gained new momentum when it received support under the Chief Minister’s Startup Scheme. Financial assistance, along with guidance in packaging, branding, and marketing, strengthened the initiative. The impact is visible on the ground—today, 50 women associated with Umang earn a stable monthly income of ₹8,000 to ₹10,000, achieving true economic independence.
Reena Chandel says, “We didn’t just build a brand, we built a community where 50 women stand together.” Today, Umang’s products are recognized not only in local markets but also beyond the state.
The journey of Umang shows that when passion, government support, and collective effort come together, social change becomes possible. This story is an inspiration for every woman who wants to showcase her talent and become self-reliant—because Umang is not just a name, it is a movement.
A Model of Self-Reliance in the Mountains: Culture, Livelihood, and Pride Through Kinnaur Mountain Treasure
High mountains, difficult paths, and limited resources—this has long been the identity of Kinnaur. Yet from these very hills emerged a woman who proved that when one trusts their roots, the future can be built right there. This is the story of Deep Mala Negi, who chose cultural preservation and sustainable livelihood over profit as her primary goal.
Belonging to the tribal region of Kinnaur, Deep Mala Negi started Kinnaur Mountain Treasure with very limited means. Her dream was simple yet visionary: to preserve the unique identity of her region and connect it with sustainable employment. She placed her faith in the purity and quality of local Kinnauri products and resolved to take the “Taste of Kinnaur” to the world.
The strength of this initiative lies in its rooted approach. From traditional pickles and chutneys to rare natural oils and ethnic apparel, Kinnaur Mountain Treasure has linked the heritage of the region with modern markets. Every product carries the fragrance of the mountains, the truth of hard work, and respect for culture.
Deep Mala Negi says, “My journey is a testimony to self-reliance. If you trust your local capabilities, the future can be built right here in these hills.” Today, this initiative is not just a brand but a strong platform for youth employment and women’s entrepreneurship, helping the new generation understand the value of their traditions.
What began as a small effort has now become a powerful example of community-based livelihood. Kinnaur Mountain Treasure has shown that cultural preservation and economic development can go hand in hand—provided the direction is right.
This is a story of the mountains, but its message is for the entire nation: in local skills and heritage lies the key to a global future.
From Kitchen to Livelihood: Neelam Verma Creates a Model of Self-Reliance with RS Food Products
Once confined within the four walls of her home as a homemaker, today she has become a source of livelihood and confidence for many women in her village. This is the story of Neelam Verma, who, through hard work, skill, and the right guidance, gave RS Food Products a distinct identity.
Belonging to Rahat village in Solan district, Neelam Verma’s early life was ordinary. As a homemaker, her days were spent in sewing, embroidery, and household chores. Yet, the desire for financial stability and the urge to do something different kept inspiring her to move forward. The turning point came in 2015, when she joined a training program in food processing.
This training gave direction to her skills. With her husband’s support and her own confidence, Neelam Verma started RS Food Products. Traditional pickles, chutneys, and syrups once prepared in her kitchen began reaching the market in an organized way. Taste, purity, and tradition became the hallmarks of her brand.
Government schemes and institutional support gave wings to her dreams. Grants and marketing assistance from the District Industries Centre (DIC) Solan, Development Block Kandaghat, and Organic Mission Shimla played a crucial role in expanding RS Food Products.
Today, RS Food Products is not only a trusted name in the market but also a source of employment for women in need in her village. Neelam Verma is offering these women the opportunity to become self-reliant—just as she once chose this path for herself.
Her message is clear: “I want to tell every woman—believe in yourself, move forward, and create your own identity.”
Her journey proves that with strong determination and faith in one’s skills, a successful enterprise can be built even from the kitchen. The story of RS Food Products is not just about a business—it is about a self-reliant woman, local flavors, and rural empowerment, inspiring many women to step ahead today.
From Needle and Thread to Dreams: Zarim Gives Mountain Weaving National Recognition
Even without formal education and with limited resources, strong determination can carve its own path to success. The story of the Zarim Self-Help Group from the remote mountain village of Goharma in Himachal Pradesh is a shining example of this belief. Leading this inspiring journey is Maan Dasi, who laid the foundation of livelihood through needle, thread, and wool—an effort that has now reached national platforms.
In 2003–04, under the Watershed Scheme, Maan Dasi began with a small group of 10 women, knitting traditional woolen socks. Despite never attending school, her understanding and leadership transformed this local need into a structured enterprise. With support from the local administration, the group found direction, and the hard work of the mountains began reaching the markets.
Over two decades, Zarim broke the boundaries of the valley. Exhibitions and fairs in cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Shimla, and Dharamshala showcased Lahauli woolen products, giving them a distinct identity. With time, the group also added sea buckthorn–based products, a fine example of value addition using local natural resources.
The greatest strength of Zarim lies in its blend of generations. Elderly women continue to preserve heritage through traditional weaving, while the younger generation manages operations, orders, and supplies via mobile phones. This fusion of tradition and technology keeps Zarim moving forward with the times.
Maan Dasi says, “We began with needles and wool. Today, our elder women weave traditions, while the younger generation runs the business. Continuous operations since 2003, national reach, and woolen and sea buckthorn products—these define Zarim.”
This story is not just about weaving, but about self-reliance, collective strength, and mountain pride. Zarim has shown that when skill is in the hands and faith is in the heart, even from the mountains, national dreams can be woven.
From Migration to Recognition: Pavna Handloom Center Transforms the Fate of a Family and Village
Once a woman who had to wander city streets in search of work, today she earns a dignified livelihood while staying in her own village—and has become a beacon of hope for others. This is the story of Pavna Kumari from Karsala village in Mandi district, who wrote a new chapter of self-reliance through the Pavna Handloom Center.
Life before 2019 was not easy for Pavna. Her family depended on rain-fed farming, which could not sustain them year-round. Seasonal unemployment forced Pavna and her husband to migrate to cities for labor work. Their annual income was barely ₹50,000, and the future seemed uncertain.
In January 2019, Pavna joined the Asha Self-Help Group. Under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), she received training in handloom and handicrafts. It was here she realized that cultural art could be turned into a business.
Pavna learned not only how to weave—but also how to sell. Recognizing the power of social media, she created Facebook and Instagram pages under the name Nari Shakti CLF to promote her products. Demand for handloom items like pattu, slippers, and frames grew rapidly.
Today, Pavna’s monthly income has risen from ₹4,000 to ₹10,000. Migration has stopped. She can now afford her children’s education and even save for the future. Pavna has become a role model in her block, inspiring other women to leave migration behind and embrace self-employment. She says, “Now I don’t have to leave the village for work. I can support my children’s education and secure our future.”
The story of Pavna Handloom Center shows that with proper training, digital access, and confidence, dignified livelihoods are possible even while staying in the village. It is not just an enterprise—it is a story of hope, pride, and a stable future.
From Dubai to Handcraft: Aurnika Turns Tradition into Luxury
What began with a simple hook, a bit of yarn, and the joy of creation has grown into a journey that carried Himalayan handicrafts onto international fashion platforms. This is the story of Selfan, whose brand Aurnika today symbolizes the beautiful blend of tradition and modernity.
In 2015, crochet started as a hobby but soon became a passion. Leaving behind a successful professional career in Dubai, Selfan returned to India with a clear goal: to transform handwoven, high-quality crochet into a luxury brand shaped by modern design language.
Every piece of Aurnika is rooted in tradition yet refined with contemporary aesthetics. This unique approach bridged the gap between rural craftsmanship and international fashion. Through exhibitions and workshops in fashion hubs like London and Dubai, Aurnika earned global recognition.
The brand’s reputation for skill and quality was further strengthened when the Ministry of Textiles honored its founder as a “Master Craftsperson.” Yet, the true strength of Aurnika lies in its social mission—training rural women and providing them with sustainable livelihoods so they can achieve economic independence.
Selfan says, “Rooted in tradition, soaring in modern culture—that is Aurnika’s philosophy. Today, Aurnika is not just a fashion brand but a symbol of purposeful luxury, where every thread weaves a story of dignity, livelihood, and pride.”
This journey proves that when creativity is paired with courage and social vision, a hobby can make history—and local skills can shine on global stages.
From Dream to Service: Basant Eye Clinic Changed Vision, Changed Lives
Some dreams are personal, but when they receive the right support and determination, they become invaluable treasures for society. Such is the inspiring story of Dr. Gunjan Joshi, who turned her dream not into a business, but into a mission of community service. Basant Eye Clinic was not founded as a commercial plan, but as an emotional tribute to the memory of the founder’s late father—a place where dedication and medical expertise come together. The goal was clear: to create a facility where quality eye care could reach every person in need.
To turn this emotional resolve into reality, resources were required. Here, the Mukhyamantri Swavalamban Yojana (MMSY) played a decisive role. With government support, essential financial assistance and technical strengthening became possible, enabling the clinic to deliver specialized eye care with modern equipment.
The results were extraordinary. In just three years, Basant Eye Clinic became one of the district’s leading specialized eye centers. Accurate diagnosis, advanced technology, and human compassion together made the clinic a trusted name.
Dr. Gunjan Joshi says, “I am grateful for the opportunity that turned a dream into a sustainable vision. Today, this clinic is not just a place of treatment, but a symbol of hope and trust—where every patient is respected, and every vision finds light.”
The journey of Basant Eye Clinic shows that when personal resolve, government support, and professional commitment come together, healthcare itself becomes a medium of social transformation. This is not just the story of a clinic—it is the story of dreams becoming a public asset.
From Dream to Startup: Devtaru Proves Nothing Is Impossible with Courage
Many people dream, but only a few gather the courage to make those dreams real. This is the story of Yogitraj Sharma, who resolved never to grow old regretting that she hadn’t even tried.
Work had been part of her life since the age of twenty. Even after the first setback in a stable career and travel business, her entrepreneurial dream did not fade. The idea of Devtaru came to her vividly—like a vision in a dream. That was the beginning of a journey that transformed a homemade remedy into a national brand.
Yogitraj decided to commercialize the traditional hair oil made at her sister’s home. She designed her own logo, launched the brand with family support, and adopted a clear philosophy—100% natural. It was not just a product, but a promise of trust.
On 28 October 2025, Devtaru Hair Oil was officially launched. The first shipments to Delhi and Shimla saw bottles break in transit—a heartbreaking moment for a new entrepreneur. But it became a lesson. Packaging and logistics were improved, and the game changed.
The results were astonishing. Within just two months, stocks sold out as soon as they were released. Demand grew, and shipments expanded to Pune, Rajasthan, and Gurugram. Her husband stood shoulder to shoulder with her to manage the rising demand, and this partnership became Devtaru’s strength.
Yogitraj says, “If you have willpower and passion, nothing is impossible.” Today, Devtaru is not just a brand but a symbol of courage, learning, and continuous improvement—showing that failure is not the end, but the next step in the right direction. The story of Devtaru inspires every dreamer afraid to start, reminding us that when we try, paths create themselves, and achievements replace regrets.
From Wool to Herbal Remedies: Lahaul Basket Weaves the Story of a Self-Reliant Himalaya
In the snowy valleys where life is shaped by struggle, discipline and collective effort open new paths. One such example is Lahaul Basket, a brand that has connected traditional wool to modern markets and Himalayan herbs to health. Leading this inspiring journey is Anita Nalwa.
Founded in 2003 as a self-help group, Lahaul Basket initially focused on the region’s identity—Lahauli woolen socks. What began as a small livelihood effort built a strong foundation through financial discipline. The group took a loan of ₹1.82 lakh from UCO Bank, secured it, and repaid it on time—this trust became the wings for future growth.
In 2019, association with the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) opened new doors. Participation in premium exhibitions and stalls gave visibility to traditional products and boosted sales. The hard work of the mountains began reaching customers across the country.
The true test of entrepreneurial vision came when Anita Nalwa decided to move beyond handloom. In 2021, under the Secure Himalaya project with NIFT Kangra, she undertook 45 days of intensive work in the Pangi region, followed by specialized training in medicinal plants after recognizing the potential of Himalayan botanicals. Learnings from RSETI Dharamshala and RCFC Jogindernagar transformed Lahaul Basket into a dual-specialty brand.
Today, Lahaul Basket offers both traditional woolen products and value-added herbal items, successfully marketed on platforms like ORGANIC/Organise. Anita Nalwa says, “From knitting socks to processing Himalayan herbs, our journey is about preserving the soul of Lahaul. Continuous operations since 2003, partnerships with institutions like NIFT and RCFC, and our unique range of wool and herbal products—Lahaul Basket today is a symbol of a self-reliant Himalaya.”
This story shows that when local identity, proper training, and market understanding come together, even the mountains can set an example of sustainable development.
