Himachal Pradesh to Showcase Local Crafts at HIM MSME Fest
Connecting Local Artisans to National Markets
Munish Sood
MANDI:
The vibrant craftsmanship from the hills of Himachal Pradesh is set to gain broader exposure as the HIM MSME Fest is scheduled from January 3 to 5 at The Ridge and Peterhoff in Shimla. This three-day festival will highlight the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, a key program designed to convert traditional skills and district-specific products into sustainable economic opportunities with both national and international reach.
Industry Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan emphasized that the MSME Fest will act as a significant platform for local producers, artisans, farmers, and small business owners to connect with organized markets and modern supply chains. He noted that the ODOP initiative is steering district economies towards integrating traditional craftsmanship with contemporary market strategies, branding, and technology-driven outreach.
“The ODOP scheme embodies the State Government’s commitment to value-driven industrial growth. It is enhancing grassroots livelihoods by focusing on agro-processing, handicrafts, manufacturing, and services while preserving the unique cultural and economic identities of each district,” Chauhan stated.
Highlighting ODOP Products
For the first time, products from all districts under the ODOP initiative will be showcased together in a dedicated pavilion at the MSME Fest. This setup will facilitate direct interactions between producers and major national market players, including Amazon and other leading e-commerce platforms.
Officials anticipate that this interaction will pave the way for new branding opportunities, bulk procurement, and long-term market connections. Artisans and entrepreneurs will also receive valuable insights into packaging, quality standards, logistics, and digital marketing—essential elements for enhancing local products in competitive markets.
Celebrating Unique District Products
Emphasizing the economic diversity of Himachal, the Industry Minister pointed out that each district has been associated with a specific product or sector under the ODOP initiative, ensuring targeted support, value addition, and market access.
Notable ODOP products include amla processing from Bilaspur, agro-products from Hamirpur, the famous Chamba Rumal from Chamba, and traditional Kullu shawls. Kangra will present its renowned Kangra tea and miniature paintings, while Kinnaur will showcase traditional chulli oil. Additionally, products from Lahaul and Spiti, Mandi's steel furniture industry, Una's light engineering sector, and Sirmaur's packaging industry will also be highlighted.
Moreover, Solan’s mushroom sector and Shimla’s tourism industry, particularly focusing on technological advancements, will demonstrate the expanding scope of ODOP beyond traditional crafts into modern services and industries.
Chauhan described the extensive showcasing of ODOP products at the MSME Fest as a crucial step towards market integration, reaffirming the State Government’s dedication to ongoing policy support, infrastructure enhancement, and strengthened market connections.
He stated that ODOP is becoming a vital tool for transforming grassroots potential into scalable and resilient economic opportunities. “This initiative transcends mere exhibitions or short-term sales; it aims to build lasting market confidence, create district-level brands, and ensure that growth benefits reach every corner,” he added.
According to the Industry Minister, the MSME Fest will not only display products but also reflect Himachal Pradesh’s broader vision of a self-sufficient economy, where each district confidently enters the national and global marketplace with its unique identity.
With strong participation anticipated from industry stakeholders, financial institutions, and digital commerce platforms, the HIM MSME Fest is set to become a landmark event in Himachal Pradesh’s journey towards inclusive and sustainable industrial development.