Himachal: 10,000 Youths to be skilled through Industrial Training; also get Stipend

April 3, 2026

With the objective of establishing industries and fostering the startup ecosystem in Himachal Pradesh, the State Government has introduced several innovative measures. According to the government, in the fifth edition of the Startup Rankings organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Himachal has been recognized as one of the country’s top-performing states.

The successful organization of the ‘Him MSME Fest 2026’ has further strengthened the startup ecosystem within the state. To position the state as a premier destination for industrial investment, special provisions have been incorporated into the budget for the financial year 2026-27. To promote youth-led startups in the state, a new ‘Him Startup Scheme’ will be formulated, under which aspiring startups and incubators will be provided with both financial and non-financial assistance.

During the current financial year, the ‘One District, Three Products’ program will be launched to further strengthen the value chain and value addition of agricultural produce; under this initiative, each district will identify three distinct products, which will then receive support in accordance with the state’s industrial policy.

The primary objective of this program is to boost the procurement of local products. This initiative will foster local entrepreneurship and bolster the rural economy. This strategic move by the government is expected to play a pivotal role in realizing the vision of a ‘Self-Reliant Himachal’ (*Atmanirbhar Himachal*).

With the aim of expanding silk production within the state, the ‘Him Silk Mission’ will be launched during the current financial year, backed by a budgetary allocation of ₹2 crore. This initiative is expected to generate additional employment opportunities in rural areas, with a specific focus on including beneficiaries from Scheduled Castes. Furthermore, through the Department of Industries, 10,000 Himachali youths will be provided with industrial training to enhance their employability and skill sets.

As part of this initiative—and with the support of the NSDC and CSR funds—each trainee will also receive a monthly stipend of ₹2,000. Mindful of the state’s unique geographical characteristics, the State Government is actively promoting green industries and encouraging entrepreneurs to invest in the tourism and hospitality sectors.