In a significant step towards empowering the skilled craftsmen and artisans of India, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently engaged in an interactive session with artisans from Raghurajpur, a heritage crafts village located in Puri, Odisha. During this insightful interaction, the Finance Minister shed light on the substantial advantages of the “PM Vishwakarma” Scheme, an initiative aimed at recognizing and supporting the talents of traditional craftsmen.
The ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme gained prominence after its announcement in the Independence Day 2023 speech by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The scheme, with a noteworthy financial allocation of Rs 13,000 crore, has been designed to elevate and preserve the rich heritage of traditional crafts by extending comprehensive support to skilled artisans across the nation.
The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has recently granted its approval for the implementation of the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme. This substantial financial commitment underscores the government’s dedication to nurturing and celebrating the creative prowess of India’s artisans.
Key highlights of the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme include the issuance of the PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card, providing formal recognition to skilled artisans. Furthermore, the scheme offers credit support in two tranches—Rs 1 lakh as the first tranche and Rs 2 lakh as the second tranche—with a concessional interest rate of 5%. This financial assistance aims to facilitate the artisans’ access to capital and resources, empowering them to enhance their craft and businesses.
In addition to financial support, the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme encompasses a holistic approach to the upliftment of artisans. This comprehensive package intends to create a conducive environment for artisans to not only preserve their age-old crafts but also expand their reach and marketability in the contemporary world.
The inaugural phase of the scheme focuses on empowering artisans practicing eighteen traditional trades. This strategic selection emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and promoting the diverse traditional crafts that are an integral part of India’s cultural tapestry.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s interaction with the craftsmen of Raghurajpur and her emphasis on the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme’s benefits underscores the government’s commitment to the welfare and growth of the skilled artisan community. As the scheme takes flight, it holds the promise of rejuvenating and preserving India’s artistic heritage while providing a springboard for artisans to thrive in the modern era.