In the heart of India’s vibrant culture lies a treasure trove of skilled artisans and craftspeople. Their hands weave magic into fabrics, carve intricate designs on wood, and mold clay into exquisite pottery. Yet, despite their immense talent, many artisans struggle to make ends meet. Recognizing this, the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme (PM Vishwakarma) was born—a beacon of hope for those who create beauty with their hands.

What Is PM Vishwakarma?

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Its mission? To provide holistic and end-to-end support to artisans and craftspeople across India. Let’s delve into the key components of this transformative initiative:

PM Vishwakarma, a Central Sector Scheme, was launched on 17th September, 2023 by the Prime Minister to provide end-to-end support to artisans and craftspeople who work with their hands and tools. The Scheme covers artisans and craftspeople engaged in 18 trades, viz. Carpenter (Suthar/Badhai), Boat Maker, Armourer, Blacksmith (Lohar), Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Locksmith, Goldsmith (Sonar), Potter (Kumhaar), Sculptor (Moortikar, stone carver), Stone breaker, Cobbler (Charmkar)/ Shoesmith/Footwear artisan, Mason (Rajmistri), Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver, Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional), Barber (Naai), Garland maker (Malakaar), Washerman (Dhobi), Tailor (Darzi) and Fishing Net Maker.

 

1. Collateral-Free Credit: Fueling Dreams

Artisans often face barriers when seeking credit. The PM Vishwakarma Scheme breaks down these walls by offering collateral-free loans. Imagine an artisan in a remote village receiving financial support without pledging assets. It’s a game-changer!

2. Skill Training: Nurturing Talent

Skills are the lifeblood of craftsmanship. Under this scheme, artisans participate in skill-enhancement programs. From traditional techniques to modern innovations, they learn, grow, and evolve. Stipends during training sweeten the deal.

3. Modern Tools: Empowering Creativity

Outdated tools hinder progress. PM Vishwakarma steps in with a toolbox of modern equipment. Imagine a potter shaping clay with precision or a weaver creating intricate patterns using state-of-the-art looms. These tools are more than metal and plastic; they’re catalysts for creativity.

4. Incentives for Digital Transactions: Going Cashless

In a digital age, cashless transactions are essential. The scheme encourages artisans to embrace digital payment methods. Imagine an artisan receiving payments through a QR code, bypassing intermediaries, and securing their hard-earned money.

5. Market Linkage Support: Connecting Art to Buyers

Creating art is one thing; selling it is another. PM Vishwakarma bridges this gap by providing market linkage support. Artisans gain access to wider audiences, both within India and globally. Their crafts travel from village workshops to urban boutiques and international exhibitions.

6. Eligibility and Application Process

Who qualifies? Artisans engaged in specified trades—be it pottery, weaving, metalwork, or embroidery. The PM Vishwakarma portal is their gateway. Registration, document submission, and voilà—the journey begins.

7. Interest Subvention: Lightening the Loan Burden

Interest rates can be daunting. Fear not! The scheme offers interest subvention on loans. Repay early? No penalties. It’s a financial safety net for those who dream big.

8. Family Definition: A Wider Canvas

The scheme defines “family” broadly. It includes not only immediate relatives but also those who share the artisan’s craft. Imagine a weaver’s community supporting each other, weaving bonds as strong as their fabric.

Also Read : Mukhyamantri Ladli Behna Yojana: सशक्त महिला, सशक्त समाज

9. Duration: A Five-Year Commitment

From FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28, PM Vishwakarma stands tall. It’s not a fleeting promise; it’s a commitment to uplift artisans and celebrate their contributions.

BENEFITS TO THE ARTISANS AND CRAFTS PERSONS

The Scheme envisages provisioning of the following benefits to the artisans and crafts persons:

• Recognition: Recognition of artisans and craftspeople through PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
• Skill Upgradation: Basic Training of 5-7 days and Advanced Training of 15 days or more, with a stipend of Rs. 500 per day.
• Toolkit Incentive: A toolkit incentive of upto Rs. 15,000 in the form of e-vouchers at the beginning of Basic Skill Training.
• Credit Support: Collateral free ‘Enterprise Development Loans’ of upto Rs. 3 lakh in two tranches of Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 2 lakh with tenures of 18 months and 30 months, respectively, at a concessional rate of interest fixed at 5%, with Government of India subvention to the extent of 8%. Beneficiaries who have completed Basic Training will be eligible to avail the first tranche of credit support of upto Rs. 1 lakh. The second loan tranche will be available to beneficiaries who have availed the 1st tranche and maintained a standard loan account and have adopted digital transactions in their business or have undergone Advanced Training.
• Incentive for Digital Transaction: An amount of Re. 1 per digital transaction, upto maximum 100 transactions monthly will be credited to the beneficiary’s account for each digital pay-out or receipt.
• Marketing Support: Marketing support will be provided to the artisans and craftspeople in the form of quality certification, branding, onboarding on e-commerce platforms such as GeM, advertising, publicity and other marketing activities to improve linkage to value chain.

In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, the Scheme will onboard the beneficiaries on Udyam Assist Platform as ‘entrepreneurs’ in the formal MSME ecosystem. Enrolment of beneficiaries shall be done through Common Service Centres with Aadhaar-based biometric authentication on PM Vishwakarma portal. The enrolment of beneficiaries will be followed by a three-step verification which will include Verification at Gram Panchayat/ ULB level, Vetting and Recommendation by the District Implementation Committee and Approval by the Screening Committee.

Conclusion: Crafting a Brighter Future

As the sun rises over India’s villages and towns, artisans continue their timeless work. The PM Vishwakarma Scheme adds color to their canvas, infusing hope, skill, and prosperity. Let’s celebrate these creators, for they are the true architects of India’s soul.

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only. For official details, visit the PM Vishwakarma FAQ page.

Remember, every thread woven, every brushstroke painted, and every chisel mark carved contributes to the rich tapestry of our nation. Let’s honor our artisans, one stitch, one stroke, and one masterpiece at a time. 🌟🎨🌿

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme (PM Vishwakarma):

Remember, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is more than just policies—it’s a lifeline for those who weave dreams with their hands. 🌟🎨🌿

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only. For official details, visit the PM Vishwakarma FAQ page.