The Him Pine Story: Weaving a Safer, Stronger Himachal
Him Pine is more than just a handicraft firm; it's a movement born in the heart of the Himalayas. We are a social enterprise that found an elegant solution to a critical environmental challenge, all while championing the economic independence of rural women.
Problem Solved: Turning Hazard into Handcraft
The beautiful Chir Pine forests of Himachal Pradesh face a constant threat: devastating summer forest fires. When the long, resin-rich pine needles (known as 'chil' in the local dialect) dry out and drop to the forest floor, they create a highly flammable blanket, acting as the perfect fuel to spread wildfires rapidly.
Our Mission is Simple: Remove the Hazard, Create the Art.
Our team works with local communities to hand-collect these fallen pine needles, directly clearing the fire-prone forest floor. By removing this highly combustible biomass, Him Pine and its artisans are literally protecting the jungle from fire, saving countless trees, wildlife, and entire ecosystems from destruction.
Women's Empowerment: The Stitch of Independence
The heart and soul of every Him Pine product are the rural women artisans of District Kangra and other parts of Himachal Pradesh.
In a region where stable livelihood opportunities can be scarce, Him Pine provides a sustainable, dignified source of income right within their villages.
Financial Freedom: By receiving regular orders for crafting items like baskets, bowls, trays, and coasters, these women gain economic self-sufficiency. This income empowers them to support their families, invest in their children's education, and become independent decision-makers in their homes and communities.
Recognized for Impact: The Startup Hero Award
Him Pine's innovative model of combining environmental protection with social empowerment has received official recognition at the highest level:
In 2018, Him Pine was honored with the prestigious Startup Hero of the State Award, worth Rs 1 Lakh (Rupees One Lakh). This award acknowledged the firm's ingenuity in converting a perennial waste product (the pine needle) into a valuable handicraft, demonstrating a viable, scalable, and socially beneficial enterprise model for the entire state.
This recognition validates our belief that a business can be a powerful force for good—creating stunning, sustainable products while protecting the planet and empowering people.