Unveiled in September 2023 by the Indian government, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana stands as a significant central sector initiative with the aim of providing comprehensive support to artisans and craftspeople across the nation. Named after Vishwakarma, the revered Hindu god of craftsmen and artisans, the program is also commonly known as PM VIKAS (Prime Minister Vishwakarma Skill Honor).
Initiated by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), this ambitious program, which commenced on September 17, 2023, specifically targets artisans engaged in 18 designated trades, including blacksmiths, potters, carpenters, weavers, and more.
Objectives of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme harbors various key objectives, all geared towards supporting and empowering India’s artisans and craftspeople:
1. Skill and Knowledge Enhancement:
Promoting skill development through training programs and workshops, the initiative ensures artisans can augment traditional skills, adopt new techniques, and produce superior products to remain relevant in the market.
2. Quality and Productivity Enhancement:
By providing access to modern tools and equipment, the scheme aims to enhance the quality and productivity of artisans’ work, making their products more attractive to buyers and potentially increasing their income.
3. Financial Access:
Facilitating collateral-free loans and financial support mechanisms, the program empowers artisans to overcome barriers to business expansion, enabling investments in raw materials, tools, and marketing for sustained growth.
4. Digital Integration:
Incentivizing digital transactions, the initiative enhances financial literacy among artisans, encouraging the establishment of a digital presence for their businesses, thus expanding market reach and visibility.
5. Market Connections:
Through branding, utilization of e-commerce platforms, and participation in trade fairs, the scheme aims to strengthen market linkages, connecting artisans directly with domestic and international markets and improving their earning potential.
6. Safeguarding Traditional Crafts:
Playing a vital role in preserving and promoting India’s rich heritage of traditional crafts, the scheme supports artisans and their skills, ensuring the continuation of age-old practices for future generations.
7. Empowerment of Individuals and Communities:
Ultimately, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme strives to empower individual artisans and craft communities by providing essential resources and skills, fostering self-sufficiency, and contributing to the broader social and economic development of India.
PM Vishwakarma Yojana Eligibility Criteria
Individuals aged 18 and above engaged in hands-on craftsmanship within family-centric traditional trades in the unorganized sector qualify for assistance. Currently, the program covers 18 distinct trades, and to access its benefits, certain documents such as Aadhar Card, Voter Identity Card, Proof of Occupation, Mobile Number, Bank Account Details, Income Certificate, and Caste Certificate (if applicable) are required.
PM Vishwakarma Yojana Benefits and Application Process
The scheme offers numerous benefits, including tool kit incentives, financial assistance, digital transaction incentives, and promotional support. The application process is user-friendly, involving registration on the official website, completion of an artisan enrollment form, uploading necessary documents, and submitting the application. The government plans to launch a dedicated mobile application for added convenience.
website link :- https://pmvishwakarma.gov.in/
