Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme today in observance of ‘Vishwakarma Jayanti.’ The event will be held at the India International Convention and Expo Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi, starting at around 11 am, as stated in a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
This scheme, named “PM Vishwakarma,” underscores PM Modi’s unwavering dedication to assist and uplift traditional artisans. During his address to the nation on the 77th Independence Day, PM Modi had unveiled his plans to introduce a scheme aimed at supporting individuals skilled in traditional craftsmanship. More than just financial assistance, the initiative aims to preserve age-old traditions, culture, and the rich heritage embodied in local products, art, and crafts.
The “PM Vishwakarma” scheme will receive full funding from the Union Government, with a substantial allocation of Rs 13,000 crore. It will facilitate the registration of ‘Vishwakarmas,’ skilled artisans who craft using their hands and tools, at no cost through Common Services Centres, utilizing the biometric-based ‘PM Vishwakarma’ portal. These artisans and craftspeople will be officially recognized through the issuance of a PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
The scheme encompasses a wide array of benefits, including skill enhancement through basic and advanced training, a toolkit incentive of Rs 15,000, collateral-free credit support up to Rs 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs 2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5 per cent, incentives for digital transactions, and marketing support.
At its core, “PM Vishwakarma” seeks to nurture the ‘Guru-Shishya parampara’ (mentor-disciple tradition) and the family-based practice of traditional skills among ‘Vishwakarmas.’ The primary goal is to enhance the quality and reach of products and services crafted by artisans and craftspeople, ensuring their integration into both domestic and global value chains.
This comprehensive scheme will benefit artisans and craftspeople in rural and urban areas across India and encompasses eighteen traditional crafts. These include carpenters, boat makers, armorers, blacksmiths, hammer and tool kit makers, locksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, sculptors, stone breakers, cobblers, masons, basket makers, mat and broom makers, coir weavers, doll and toy makers, barbers, garland makers, washermen, tailors, and fishing net makers.
“PM Vishwakarma” marks a significant step towards preserving India’s cultural heritage, empowering skilled artisans, and fostering the rich tradition of craftsmanship that has endured for generations. This initiative embodies the government’s commitment to supporting traditional crafts and ensuring their thriving continuation in the modern era.
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