Last Updated: September 17, 2023, 16:23 IST
PM Modi interacting with artisans at YashoBhoomi convention centre in Delhi’s Dwarka. (Image: News18)
PM-Vishwakarma Scheme: The Union Cabinet approved a cost outlay of Rs 13,000 crore for the Vishwakarma scheme
On the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched the PM-Vishwakarma scheme, an initiative intended to extend a helping hand to artisans and craftsmen and those engaged in traditional skills.
Ahead of the launch of the PM-Vishwakarma scheme, PM Modi also interacted with Vishwakarma partners at the India International Convention and Expo Centre and appreciated their artefacts.
The prime minister at the launch of the scheme said, “Under the PM Vishwakarma scheme, the government will provide up to Rs 3 lakhs loan without any (bank) guarantee.”
What is the PM-Vishwakarma Scheme
Launched with an aim to provide recognition and holistic support to the traditional artisans and craftsmen working with their hands and elementary tools, the PM-Vishwakarma scheme will provide up to Rs 3 lakhs loan without any (bank) guarantee to all such artisans.
The scheme also ensures that the interest rate for the loans provided under this scheme is also very low. The government has decided that Rs 1 lakh loan will be given in the beginning and when it is repaid, the government will provide an additional Rs 2 lakh loan to the Vishwakarma partners.
Under this scheme, the artisans and craftspeople will also be offered training and a daily stipend of around Rs 500 along with free application as well as ID cards and certificates.
This way, the Centre aspires to improve the quality, scale and reach of the products created by Vishwakarma partners and also to integrate them with MSME value chains.
Who All Can Benefit from the PM-Vishwakarma Scheme
Under this scheme, the government has included 18 Traditional Trades such as Fishing Net Maker, Tailor (Darzi), Washerman (Dhobi), Garland Maker (Malakaar), Barber (Nai), Doll and Toy Maker (Traditional), Basket/ Mat/ Broom Maker/ Coir Weaver, Mason (Rajmistri), Cobbler (Charmkar/ Shoesmith/ Footwear Artisan), Sculptor (Moortikar/Stone Carver), Stone Breaker, Potter (Kumhaar), Goldsmith (Sonar), Locksmith, Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Blacksmith (Lohar), Armourer, Boat Maker, Carpenter (Suthar).
The roles of net makers and boat makers in the development of small-scale industries and the fisheries sector are imperative; they play a vital role in the smooth functioning of our fishing industry and serve as the backbone of Indian marine fisheries.
How Much is Centre Spending on the PM-Vishwakarma Scheme
Last month, the Union Cabinet approved a cost outlay of Rs 13,000 crore for the Vishwakarma scheme.
The approval came after Prime Minister Modi in his Independence Day 2023 speech that his government would launch a scheme on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti to benefit the individuals skilled in traditional craftsmanship, particularly from the OBC community.
