PM Modi Launches ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme to Empower Traditional Artisans
In a momentous occasion marking the celebration of ‘Vishwakarma Jayanti’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme today, dedicated to the welfare and upliftment of traditional artisans. The event unfolded at the India International Convention and Expo Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi, commencing at approximately 11 am, as detailed in a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
The ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme underscores Prime Minister Modi’s unwavering commitment to provide vital support to individuals engaged in traditional craftsmanship, emphasizing the preservation of age-old traditions, cultural heritage, and the rich legacy embodied in local products, arts, and crafts.
In a significant announcement made during his address to the nation from the Red Fort on the 77th Independence Day, PM Modi revealed the imminent launch of a scheme designed to empower those skilled in traditional craftsmanship. This initiative extends beyond financial aid, aiming to safeguard and nurture the ‘Guru-Shishya parampara’ (mentor-disciple tradition) and the family-based practice of traditional skills among ‘Vishwakarmas’ – artisans who craft with their hands and tools.
The ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme boasts full funding from the Union Government, with an impressive allocation of Rs 13,000 crore. Under this program, artisans and craftspeople, known as ‘Vishwakarmas,’ will be registered at no cost through Common Services Centres, using the biometric-based ‘PM Vishwakarma’ portal. They will receive recognition in the form of a PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
Key highlights of the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme include 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 essence, “PM Vishwakarma” seeks to strengthen and cultivate the ‘Guru-Shishya parampara’ and the family-based practice of traditional skills among ‘Vishwakarmas,’ who create using their hands and tools. The primary objective 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 both rural and urban areas across India, covering eighteen traditional crafts, including carpenters, boat makers, armorers, blacksmiths, hammer and tool kit makers, locksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, sculptors, stone breakers, cobblers, masons, basket, mat, broom makers, coir weavers, doll and toy makers, barbers, garland makers, washermen, tailors, and fishing net makers.
“PM Vishwakarma” represents a significant stride toward preserving India’s cultural heritage, empowering skilled artisans, and promoting the rich tradition of craftsmanship that has endured for generations. This initiative vividly embodies the government’s steadfast commitment to supporting traditional crafts and ensuring their flourishing in the modern era.
