In celebration of ‘Vishwakarma Jayanti,’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked his 73rd birthday by launching the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme, dedicated to the welfare and support of traditional artisans. This initiative, initially announced during the 77th Independence Day address, is designed to empower and uplift skilled craftsmen practicing various traditional trades.
Key Features of the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme:
- Full Government Funding: The ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme is entirely funded by the Union government, with a substantial allocation of ₹13,000 crore. This significant investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting and preserving traditional craftsmanship.
- Biometric-Based Registration: Prospective beneficiaries will have the opportunity to register for the scheme free of charge through common services centers, utilizing the biometric-based PM Vishwakarma portal. This streamlined registration process ensures accessibility for artisans from diverse backgrounds.
- Support for Rural and Urban Artisans: The scheme’s reach extends to artisans and craftspeople residing in both rural and urban areas across India. By including both demographic groups, the government aims to provide holistic support to skilled individuals practicing traditional trades.
- Coverage of 18 Traditional Trades: Initially, the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme will encompass 18 traditional trades, including carpentry, blacksmithing, pottery, tailoring, and more. This diverse range of trades represents the rich tapestry of traditional craftsmanship in India.
- Phased Implementation: In its inaugural year, the scheme is set to cover five lakh families. Over the subsequent five years, from FY24 to FY28, the scheme aims to extend its support to a total of 30 lakh families.
- Quality Enhancement and Global Integration: The primary focus of the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme is to elevate the quality and reach of artisans’ products and services. The government aims to integrate traditional artisans into both domestic and global value chains.
- Recognition and Skill Upgradation: Beneficiaries of the scheme will receive recognition through a PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card. Additionally, they will undergo skill upgrading, including basic and advanced training to enhance their craftsmanship.
- Toolkit Incentive and Financial Support: Artisans enrolled in the PM Vishwakarma Scheme will receive a toolkit incentive of ₹15,000. They will also have access to collateral-free credit support, with the first tranche offering ₹1 lakh and the second tranche ₹2 lakh at a concessional interest rate of 5%. Incentives for digital transactions and marketing support are also part of the scheme.
The ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme underscores the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting India’s rich traditional craftsmanship. By providing artisans with essential tools, recognition, training, and financial incentives, this initiative seeks to empower skilled individuals and ensure the continuity of traditional trades for generations to come.