The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is an ambitious ₹13,000 crore central government scheme to economically empower traditional artisans across eighteen distinct trades. It provides comprehensive skill training, a ₹15,000 toolkit incentive, and collateral-free credit up to ₹3 lakh at 5% interest.
Why In News?
The West Bengal government initiated the rollout of the Centre's PM Vishwakarma Yojana to empower traditional artisans and craftspeople through financial aid and skill development.
What is the PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
It was launched on September 17, 2023 (Vishwakarma Jayanti) by the Prime Minister, to integrate traditional practitioners into the formal economy and global value chains.
It is a Central Sector Scheme designed to provide end-to-end support to traditional artisans and craftspeople who work with their hands and tools.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
Financial Outlay: Fully funded by the Union Government with an outlay of ₹13,000 crore.
Scheme Duration: Five years, from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28.
Philosophy: Strengthens the Guru-Shishya Parampara or family-based practice of traditional skills.
Core Purpose:
The 18 Identified Traditional Trades
The scheme initially covers 18 traditional trades practiced across India:
|
Category |
Specific Trades Covered |
|
Wood & Watercraft |
Carpenter (Suthar/Badhai), Boat Maker |
|
Metalwork & Tools |
Armorer, Blacksmith (Lohar), Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Locksmith |
|
Jewelry & Pottery |
Goldsmith (Sonar), Potter (Kumhaar) |
|
Construction & Sculpture |
Sculptor (Moortikar/Stone carver), Stone breaker, Mason (Rajmistri) |
|
Leather & Weaving |
Cobbler (Charmkar)/Shoesmith, Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver, Fishing Net Maker |
|
Personal Services |
Barber (Naai), Garland maker (Malakaar), Washerman (Dhobi), Tailor (Darzi) |
|
Traditional Arts |
Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional) |
Key Benefits and Support Components
The scheme provides a comprehensive package of support to eligible beneficiaries:
Registration and Implementation Framework
Source: THEHINDUBUSINESSLINE
|
PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements regarding the PM Vishwakarma Yojana:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Answer: (d) Explanation: Statement 1 is correct: It is a Central Sector Scheme fully funded by the Union Government. The scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹13,000 crore for a five-year period from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28. Statement 2 is correct: The scheme provides collateral-free credit support up to ₹3 lakh. This is disbursed in two tranches: the first tranche of up to ₹1 lakh and a second tranche of up to ₹2 lakh, at a highly concessional interest rate of 5%. Statement 3 is correct: The scheme initially covers 18 traditional trades. These include boat makers, goldsmiths, tailors, carpenters, blacksmiths, potters, sculptors, and cobblers, among others. |
It is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Ministry of MSME to provide end-to-end support to traditional artisans and craftspeople working with their hands and tools.
Artisans and craftsmen engaged in 18 specific traditional trades, such as carpenters, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, sculptors, tailors, and cobblers, are eligible.
Beneficiaries can receive collateral-free credit support of up to ₹3 lakh (₹1 lakh in the first tranche and ₹2 lakh in the second) at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
© 2026 iasgyan. All right reserved
