New Delhi: PM Vishwakarma Scheme has empowered more than 24 lakh traditional artisans across India with skill training, credit support, modern toolkits and marketing assistance, the Centre informed the Lok Sabha on Thursday.
Minister of State for MSME Shobha Karandlaje said the PM Vishwakarma Scheme provides end-to-end support to artisans and craftspeople engaged in 18 traditional trades. The scheme aims to improve their skills, strengthen their businesses and connect them with wider markets.
Launched on September 17, 2023, the scheme covers trades such as carpentry, boat making, metal work, goldsmithing, pottery, tailoring, masonry, toy making, barbering and fishing net making. Registered beneficiaries become eligible for skill upgradation, collateral-free credit, modern toolkits, digital incentives and marketing support after completing the verification process.
An evaluation by IIM Mumbai, based on feedback from 11,591 beneficiaries across all States and Union Territories, found that 93% of participants reported a moderate to significant increase in income after completing training. The study also included feedback from banks, Common Service Centres, India Post and training centres.
PM Vishwakarma Scheme expands market access
As of now, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme has provided basic skill training to 24.29 lakh beneficiaries. The programme introduces artisans to modern tools, improved production methods, innovative designs, digital payments and entrepreneurship.
The government has also onboarded beneficiaries onto the Udyam Assist Platform. As a result, they can access priority sector lending and other government schemes to modernise their businesses and expand their operations.
In addition, the scheme offers marketing support through trade fairs, State-level exhibitions and e-commerce platforms. These initiatives help artisans showcase and sell their products in domestic and international markets.
The government has organised more than 1,500 awareness programmes and camps, over 50 workshops, 82 trade fairs, 37 State-level exhibitions and more than 50 flash mobs across the country. These outreach programmes cover both rural and urban areas.
Shobha Karandlaje shared the information in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.
