PM Vishwakarma Yojana

PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a government scheme launched in September 2023 to support traditional artisans and craftspeople (Vishwakarmas) in India. It provides recognition, skill training, modern tools, credit access, and market linkage to artisans working in 18 traditional trades, from blacksmiths and carpenters to potters and weavers.

What Is PM Vishwakarma Yojana?

The scheme recognises that India’s traditional artisans, who work with their hands and tools, are the backbone of the handmade economy. Many face challenges accessing formal credit, modern tools, and larger markets. PM Vishwakarma bridges these gaps.

The 18 trades covered include:
– Blacksmith (Lohar)
– Goldsmith (Sonar)
– Carpenter (Suthar)
– Potter (Kumhar)
– Sculptor (Moortikar)
– Boat maker
– Armorer
– Lock maker
– Toy maker
– Barber (Nai)
– Washerman (Dhobi)
– Tailor
– Fishing net maker
– Cobbler/Shoemaker
– Mason
– Basket/mat weaver
– Broom maker
– Doll and toy maker

Key Benefits

**Recognition:** PM Vishwakarma certificate and identity card, providing formal recognition of the artisan’s status.

**Skill training:** Free basic (5 days) and advanced (15 days) training with a stipend of Rs 500 per day during training.

**Tool kit support:** Grant of up to Rs 15,000 for purchasing tools related to their trade.

**Credit support:** Collateral-free loans:
– First loan: up to Rs 1 lakh at 5% interest rate
– Second loan (after repayment): up to Rs 2 lakh at 5% interest rate

**Digital payment support:** Incentives for adopting digital payment modes.

**Market access:** Support for marketing and branding of products.

Eligibility

– Must be engaged in one of the 18 covered trades on a self-employment basis
– Must be 18 years or older at the time of registration
– Only one family member per household is eligible

Practical Example

Ramesh is a 45-year-old blacksmith in a small town. He registers under PM Vishwakarma Yojana, receives a certificate, and attends a skill upgrade training for 15 days where he earns Rs 7,500 as a training stipend. He receives Rs 15,000 as a tool grant and buys a modern electric grinder. He also receives a Rs 1 lakh loan at 5% interest to buy raw materials in bulk, reducing his costs significantly.

Key Takeaways

– PM Vishwakarma supports artisans in 18 traditional trades with training, tools, credit, and market access
– Loans up to Rs 3 lakh (in two tranches) at a concessional 5% interest rate
– Free skill training with a daily stipend of Rs 500
– Tool grant of up to Rs 15,000 to modernise equipment
– The scheme provides formal recognition and identity to millions of traditional craftspeople