On the auspicious occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially inaugurated the PM Vishwakarma Yojana. This scheme was initially announced during his address on the 77th Independence Day at the Red Fort. The primary objective of this scheme is to extend financial support, offer skill training, facilitate skill enhancement, and provide marketing assistance to the talented small-scale artisans and craftsmen scattered across India. The overarching aim is to elevate their overall well-being while simultaneously preserving and showcasing India’s rich culture, traditions, and exceptional craftsmanship.
The formal launch ceremony took place at the India International Convention and Expo Centre in Dwarka, coinciding with the 73rd birth anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Furthermore, in conjunction with the introduction of the ‘PM Vishwakarma scheme,’ Modi also unveiled a collection of 18 postage stamps and an accompanying Toolkit Booklet.
Individuals who are both interested and eligible can complete their registration on the PM Vishwakarma portal through the Common Service Center (CSC) at no cost. This opportunity extends to artisans and craftsmen in both rural and urban areas throughout India. To ensure clarity regarding the beneficiaries of the scheme, a comprehensive list has been compiled.
The PM Vishwakarma scheme encompasses eighteen traditional crafts, which are as follows:
- Carpenter
- Boat Maker
- Armourer
- Blacksmith
- Hammer and Tool Kit Maker
- Locksmith
- Goldsmith
- Potter
- Sculptor, Stone breaker
- Cobbler (Shoesmith/Footwear artisan)
- Mason (Rajmistri)
- Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver
- Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional)
- Barber
- Garland maker
- Washerman
- Tailor
- Fishing Net Maker
What does the scheme offer?
Under the PM Vishwakarma scheme, beneficiaries will receive:
- Recognition through a PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
- Skill enhancement through basic and advanced training programs.
- A toolkit incentive amounting to ₹15,000.
- Collateral-free credit support, with the first tranche offering up to ₹1 lakh and the second tranche extending up to ₹2 lakh, both at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
- Incentives for digital transactions.
- Marketing support to promote their crafts.