GUWAHATI: On the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to introduce a new scheme named "PM Vishwakarma" on September 17. The launch event will take place at the India International Convention and Expo Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi.
The primary objective is not only to provide financial aid to artisans and craftspeople but also to preserve age-old traditions, culture, and diverse heritage by promoting local products, arts, and crafts. In the Northeast, the launch programme will be held at 10 locations, including three locations in Assam.
Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and AYUSH, will attend the launch programme in Guwahati. Bishweswar Tudu, Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs and Jal Shakti, will be present in Silchar. Rameshwar Teli, Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Labour and Employment, will participate in Dibrugarh.
PM Vishwakarma is a fully funded scheme by the Union Government with an allocation of ₹13,000 crore. Under this scheme, artisans known as Vishwakarmas will be registered free of charge through Common Services Centres, utilising the biometric-based PM Vishwakarma portal.
They will receive recognition through PM Vishwakarma certificates and ID cards, skill enhancement through basic and advanced training, a toolkit incentive of ₹15,000, collateral-free credit support up to ₹1 lakh (first tranche) and ₹2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5 per cent, incentives for digital transactions, and marketing support.
PM Vishwakarma's primary focus is to enhance the quality and reach of products and services offered by artisans and craftspeople and to integrate them into domestic and global value chains. The scheme will extend its support to artisans and craftspeople in both rural and urban areas across India.
18 traditional crafts will be covered under the scheme, including Carpenter, Boat Maker, Armourer, Blacksmith, Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Locksmith, Goldsmith, Potter, Sculptor, Stone Breaker, Cobbler (Shoesmith/Footwear Artisan), Mason (Rajmistri), Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver, Doll and Toy Maker (Traditional), Barber, Garland Maker, Washerman, Tailor, and Fishing Net Maker.
