The government periodically launches various schemes to preserve traditional skills in the country and provide new opportunities to artisans. Among these schemes, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana is given special importance, designed for those whose livelihoods and livelihoods depend entirely on their skills. This scheme not only provides financial support to artisans but also allows them to advance their skills with modern technology.
Objective and Need of the Scheme
Many families in India have been engaged in traditional occupations such as carpentry, gold and silversmithing, blacksmithing, masonry, tailoring, barbering, and pottery for generations. In the changing times, these occupations require modern equipment, training, and financial support to survive. To meet this need, the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana has been launched to not only preserve the skills of traditional artisans but also increase their income.
Who Can Benefit and Who Cannot?
The scheme’s benefits are limited to those who are self-employed through traditional skills. Anyone in a government job or working in a government department, corporation, or body is not eligible to enrol in the scheme. Similarly, anyone already receiving benefits from a central or state government skill development scheme is not included in the PM Vishwakarma Yojana. Its purpose is to ensure that benefits reach genuine artisans only, so that they can strengthen their financial situation.
Training and Stipend Facility
After enrolling in the scheme, beneficiaries receive specialised training. A stipend of ₹500 per day is provided during the training period, allowing artisans to focus on their work as well as their learning. After completing the training, the government provides assistance of ₹15,000, which they can use to purchase toolkits and equipment necessary for their work.
Loan Assistance and Financial Strength
The special feature of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana is that it also offers easy loan facilities. The first phase of the scheme provides a loan of up to ₹1 lakh for 18 months. After repaying this loan on time, artisans can enter the second phase, which offers loans of up to ₹2 lakh for 30 months. This scheme helps artisans expand their businesses and reach more customers.
A Major Opportunity for Artisans
This scheme is proving useful for all those who want to take their skills to new heights. Through government support, training, and financial assistance, this scheme is playing a vital role in making traditional skills competitive in modern times. Its objective is not only to provide financial assistance but also to create new employment opportunities in both rural and urban areas, empowering the artisan community to become self-reliant.