The PM Vishwakarma Yojana, launched on September 17, 2023, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a significant initiative aimed at empowering traditional artisans and craftspeople in India. This Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Government of India, has a budget allocation of ₹13,000 crore for a five-year period, from 2023 to 2028. The scheme is designed to provide comprehensive support to artisans engaged in 18 traditional trades, thereby enhancing their socio-economic status and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
This program also emphasizes skill development, offering free training to enhance the artisans’ craftsmanship and integrate modern techniques with traditional skills. By recognizing the contributions of these skilled workers, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana aims to improve the quality and market accessibility of their products, ultimately fostering economic growth in the unorganized sector. The initiative is expected to empower artisans, giving them a sense of identity and pride while preserving India’s rich cultural heritage
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PM Vishwakarma Yojana 2024
| Yojana Name | PM Vishwakarma Yojana |
| Launch Date | September 17, 2023 (Vishwakarma Puja) |
| Total Budget | ₹13,000 crores |
| Target Beneficiaries | Over 30 lakh artisans and craftspeople |
| Financial Assistance | – Loans up to ₹3 lakh at 5% interest rate – Toolkit incentives of up to ₹15,000 |
| Application Start Date | To be announced (expected in 2024) |
| Application End Date | To be announced |
| Loan Amount for Enterprise Development | Up to ₹1,00,000 for the initial loan, with a tenure of 18 months |
| Official Website | pmvishwakarma.gov.in |
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana aims to provide holistic support to artisans and craftspeople by enhancing their skills and facilitating better market access. The initiative also includes provisions for financial assistance, which can significantly improve the economic conditions of the beneficiaries.
Concept Behind PM Vishwakarma Yojana
- Recognition: Providing artisans with a PM Vishwakarma certificate and identity card to acknowledge their skills and contributions.
- Skill Development: Offering basic and advanced training programs, with stipends of ₹500 per day for participants. The training is aimed at upgrading the artisans’ skills and enhancing their productivity.
- Financial Support: Facilitating collateral-free loans of up to ₹3 lakh, distributed in two tranches (₹1 lakh and ₹2 lakh), at a concessional interest rate of 5%. This financial assistance aims to help artisans invest in their businesses and modernize their tools.
- Digital Empowerment: Encouraging digital transactions by providing incentives of ₹1 per transaction for up to 100 transactions per month, promoting financial inclusion.
- Market Access: Assisting artisans in marketing their products through quality certification, branding, and onboarding on e-commerce platforms.
Eligibility Criteria For PM Vishwakarma Scheme
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Trade Engagement: The scheme is specifically designed for individuals engaged in traditional trades, particularly those that are family-centered and part of the unorganized sector.
- Loan History: Individuals who have availed loans from government schemes for business or self-employment in the last five years are not eligible. However, those who have repaid loans under PM SVANidhi or MUDRA schemes can apply.
- Family Limitation: Only one member from a family can apply for the benefits of this scheme.
- Employment Status: Government employees and their families are not eligible for this scheme.
Required Documents
- Aadhaar Card: For identity verification.
- Voter ID Card: To establish citizenship.
- Bank Account Details: For the disbursement of financial assistance.
- Income Certificate: To assess eligibility based on income levels.
- Caste Certificate: If applicable, to validate the applicant’s social category.
- Proof of Occupation: Documentation that verifies the applicant’s engagement in a traditional trade.
- Mobile Number: For communication and updates regarding the application status.
Benefits of PM Vishwakarma Scheme
- Financial Assistance: Beneficiaries can receive loans at low-interest rates to start or expand their businesses.
- Toolkit Incentives: A financial incentive of up to ₹15,000 for purchasing modern tools and equipment.
- Skill Development: Access to skill training programs to enhance traditional skills and introduce modern techniques.
- Market Linkage Support: Assistance in marketing products through digital platforms and participation in trade fairs.
- Digital Transaction Incentives: Monthly incentives for eligible digital transactions, encouraging the adoption of digital payment methods.
PM Vishwakarma Yojana Important Dates
| Scheme Announcement | Vishwakarma Puja, 2023 |
| Application Start Date | To be announced |
| Application End Date | To be announced |
How To Apply For The PM Vishwakarma Yojana in 2024
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official website of pmvishwakarma.gov.in.
- Register: Click on the “Register” link and complete the Aadhaar e-KYC process by providing your mobile number.
- Fill the Application Form: After registration, access the “Apply Online For Artisan Registration Form” and fill in the required details accurately.
- Attach Required Documents: Upload scanned copies of all necessary documents, including your Aadhaar card, bank details, and proof of occupation.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review your application before submission. After submission, you will receive an application ID for tracking.