Vishwakarma Scheme to Support Traditional Crafts Launched

On 17^th September, 2023, India’s Prime Minister launched the Rs 13,000-crore PM Vishwakarma Yojana for traditional artisans

Key Points

Fully Funded by the Centre: PM Vishwakarma scheme, aimed at supporting traditional artisans, receives complete funding from the Central government.
Free Registration via Biometric Portal: Traditional artisans, known as 'Vishwakarmas,' can register free of charge through the PM Vishwakarma portal, facilitated by Common Services Centres.
Comprehensive Benefits: Registered Vishwakarmas will gain recognition through the issuance of PM Vishwakarma certificates and ID cards.
The scheme offers skill enhancement opportunities, encompassing both basic and advanced training.
Artisans receive a toolkit incentive of Rs. 15,000.
Collateral-free credit support is extended, providing up to Rs. 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs. 2 lakh (second tranche) at a highly favourable interest rate of 5%.
Additional incentives are provided for digital transactions and marketing support.
Covering 18 Traditional Crafts: PM Vishwakarma Yojana encompasses a wide range of 18 traditional crafts, including carpentry, boat making, blacksmithing, goldsmithing, and more.