Him Ira initiative: Empowering Sirmaur’s rural women through economic growth

In a strong push for women’s empowerment and inclusive development, the Himachal Pradesh government is actively supporting rural women through the Him Ira initiative under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). This program, designed to foster economic self-reliance, has led to the formation of self-help groups (SHGs) across Sirmaur district, empowering local women to take charge of their financial futures.

So far, 4,000 SHGs have been established in Sirmaur, each providing opportunities for women to create and sell high-quality products, from handcrafted goods to locally grown produce. To support these efforts, Him Ira-branded sales centers have been set up to showcase and sell these items, allowing local people to purchase quality products at affordable prices while directly supporting the SHG women.

These centers, located throughout Sirmaur’s development blocks, are more than just marketplaces; they are hubs of empowerment. The centers in Nahan, for example, are strategically placed at well-frequented sites like Mata Bala Sundari Temple in Trilokpur and popular local spots like Jamta, Delhi Gate, and Shri Renuka Ji. In Pachhad block, the She-Haat and Him Ira canteens provide additional selling opportunities in Baing Passing and Sarahan, giving SHG women broader reach to promote their products.

Beyond providing market access, these centers offer SHG women fair prices for their work, ensuring they earn a dignified income. This is a win-win for the community, as local residents gain access to affordable, quality products while supporting the livelihoods of these women entrepreneurs.

The mission’s impact extends beyond retail. Weekly markets under the Him Ira brand showcase SHG products to even larger audiences, building awareness and demand for these locally-made goods. Additionally, the district’s 380 village organizations and 22 cluster-level federations work together to strengthen and support the SHGs, ensuring a robust community of financially empowered women.

Him Ira isn’t just helping women make ends meet; it’s giving them a voice, independence, and the confidence to lead their communities. Through ongoing programs and efforts like She-Haat centers, these women are not only strengthening their finances but are also playing a central role in Sirmaur’s economic growth. The Him Ira initiative stands as a beacon of what is possible when local communities come together to empower one another.