India has introduced a new scheme, the ‘Prime Minister (PM) Vishwakarma Scheme’, aimed at uplifting traditional artisans and craftspeople. The scheme, launched by the Prime Minister on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, is focused on preserving cultural heritage and integrating local craftsmen into the formal economy and global value chains.
About the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is designed to support artisans and craftspeople who are engaged in various traditional occupations like blacksmithing, goldsmithing, pottery, carpentry, and sculpting. This Central Sector Scheme, funded entirely by the Government of India, extends its reach towards both rural and urban areas, encompassing 18 traditional trades. The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) is vested as the Nodal Ministry for the Scheme, jointly implemented with support from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance.
Features of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme recognizes and supports enrolled artisans by providing them with a directed certificate and an identity card. These beneficiaries are also eligible to receive collateral-free credit support of up to Rs 1 lakh for their first tranche, and Rs 2 lakh for their second tranche at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
The scheme also emphasizes skill development and empowerment of artisans. It has been allocated a budget ranging from Rs 13,000 crore for five financial years from 2023-2024 to 2027-2028. This initiative offers a stipend of Rs 500 per day for skill training, along with a Rs 15,000 grant for the purchase of modern tools.
Registration and Implementation of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, registration can be completed at common service centers located in villages. The Central government will provide the funding for the scheme, but they are also seeking the active participation and support of state governments.
Objectives of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The primary objectives of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme range from ensuring seamless integration of artisans into both domestic and global value chains to enhancing their market access and opportunities. Additionally, it aims to preserve and promote India’s rich cultural heritage of traditional crafts. This move is expected to facilitate the transition of artisans into the formal economy and enhance their integration into global value chains.
Significance of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
Despite technological advancements, traditional artisans or Vishwakarmas still play a critical role in society. There is a pressing need to recognize and support these craftsmen, helping them integrate into the global supply chain.
Other Government Initiatives for Upliftment of Artisans
In addition to the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, the government has introduced several other initiatives to uplift artisans. These include the Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana, Mega Cluster Scheme, National Handicraft Development Programme, Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme, Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts, One District One Product initiative, and the Atmanirbhar Hastshilpkar Scheme.
