PM Vishwakarma Yojana Details

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a flagship initiative by the Government of India to uplift traditional artisans, craftsmen, and skilled workers.

Named after Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect in Hindu mythology, this scheme aims to preserve India’s rich heritage of handicrafts and handlooms while providing financial and technical support to artisans. Below is a detailed guide covering its overview, benefits, eligibility, application process, and latest updates.

PM Vishwakarma Yojana Overview

Launched in 2023, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana focuses on empowering artisans and craftsmen engaged in traditional occupations like carpentry, pottery, weaving, blacksmithing, and sculpting. The scheme aims to:

• Provide financial assistance to improve productivity and market access.
• Preserve India’s cultural heritage by promoting traditional skills.
• Enhance the socio-economic status of artisans through skill development and technology integration.

The government has allocated ₹13,000 crore for this scheme, targeting over 30 lakh beneficiaries across India.

What is PM Vishwakarma Yojana?

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a holistic support system for artisans and craftsmen. It recognizes their contribution to the economy and culture and addresses challenges like low income, lack of modern tools, and limited market reach. Key components include:

1. Financial Aid: Loans and subsidies to upgrade tools and workshops.
2. Skill Training: Programs to refine traditional techniques and adopt modern technology.
3. Marketing Support: Access to e-commerce platforms and craft fairs to sell products.
4. Social Security: Insurance coverage and pension benefits.

The scheme covers 18 traditional trades, including goldsmiths, tailors, masons, and basket weavers.

Benefits of PM Vishwakarma Yojana

1. Low-Interest Loans:
   • Artisans can avail ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh loans at subsidized interest rates (5–8%).
   • Collateral-free loans under the MUDRA Yojana integration.
2. Skill Development:
   • Free training programs through Tool Rooms and Craft Clusters.
   • Certifications to enhance employability and product quality.
3. Toolkit Incentive:
   • ₹15,000 grant to purchase modern tools and equipment.
4. Market Linkages:
   • Promotion through platforms like GeM (Government e-Marketplace) and Amazon Karigar.
5. Social Welfare:
   • Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) coverage.
6. Recognition:
   • Awards and certifications for exceptional artisans.

Eligibility for PM Vishwakarma Yojana

1. Occupation: Must belong to one of the 18 recognized traditional trades (e.g., carpentry, pottery, weaving).
2. Age: 18–60 years.
3. Income: Annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh (varies by state).
4. Residency: Indian citizen with a valid Aadhaar card.
5. Priority Groups:
   • Women artisans, SC/ST/OBC communities, and rural artisans.
   • Artisans not covered under other government schemes.

Documents Required for PM Vishwakarma Yojana

1. Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, voter ID, or PAN card.
2. Caste Certificate: For SC/ST/OBC applicants.
3. Income Certificate: Issued by a tehsildar or competent authority.
4. Occupation Proof:
   • Membership in artisan cooperatives or guilds.
   • Affidavit verifying traditional occupation (if no formal proof).
5. Bank Account Details: For Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
6. Passport-sized Photograph.

How to Apply for PM Vishwakarma Yojana Online?

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to pmvishwakarma.gov.in.
2. Register: Click “New User” and enter your mobile number, Aadhaar, and trade details.
3. Fill the Application Form:
   • Provide personal, occupational, and income details.
   • Upload required documents (JPEG/PDF format).
4. Submit: Review details and click “Submit.”
5. Track Application: Use the reference number to check status online.
6. Verification: Authorities will verify details via field visits or calls.
7. Approval: Once approved, benefits are credited to your bank account.

Offline Application:

• Visit Common Service Centers (CSCs), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), or Block Offices for assistance.

PM Vishwakarma Yojana Latest Updates (2023)

1. Expanded Coverage:
   • 5 new trades added, including toy makers and stone carvers.
   • Focus on northeastern states and tribal regions.
2. Increased Loan Limits:
   • Maximum loan amount raised to ₹3 lakh for high-demand sectors like handlooms.
3. Digital Integration:
   • Vishwakarma Skill Verification App launched to authenticate artisans’ expertise.
4. Partnerships:
   • Collaboration with NIFT and NID for design innovation.
5. Awareness Drives:
   • “Vishwakarma Rath” mobile vans to educate rural artisans about the scheme.
6. Interest Subvention:
   • Additional 2% interest subsidy for women and differently-abled artisans.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Low Awareness:
   • Many artisans remain unaware of the scheme.
   • Solution: Workshops in regional languages and NGO partnerships.
2. Documentation Issues:
   • Lack of formal occupation proof.
   • Solution: Simplify affidavit process and community certifications.
3. Delayed Loans:
   • Solution: Streamline bank approvals through dedicated portals.

Conclusion

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a game-changer for India’s artisans, offering them financial stability, skill enhancement, and market access. By bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, the scheme ensures that craftsmen can thrive in a competitive economy. Eligible artisans are urged to apply online or offline to leverage these benefits. For updates, visit the official portal or contact the PM Vishwakarma Helpline at 1800-XXX-XXXX.

Note: Scheme guidelines may vary slightly by state. Always verify details from official sources.