Vishwakarma Yojana soon for artisans, says PM

Vishwakarma Yojana soon for artisans, says PM

Subject : Schemes

Introduction

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address from Red Fort.
• Vishwakarma Yojana was introduced to support traditional artisans’ skill development.
• Allocation of around ₹13,000 to ₹15,000 crore to empower traditional craftsmanship.
• Beneficiaries include weavers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, laundry workers, barbers, etc.
• Launch on Vishwakarma Jayanti, starting with initial allocation.

Support for Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

• Introduction of drones for women SHGs to aid agricultural activities.
• Empowerment of rural women through skill training in drone operation and repair.
• Government’s target of creating two crores “lakhpatididis” in villages.
• Drones facilitate agricultural work and expand women’s economic opportunities.
• Synergy with Vishwakarma Yojana for holistic rural upliftment.

Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman 

• Initiative to preserve and revive traditional arts and crafts.
• Financial aid, skill training, and technological advancement.
• Integration within the MSME value chain to amplify impact.
• Drive for self-sufficiency and global recognition of Indian craftsmanship.

Key Features

• Scheduled launch on 17 September (Vishwakarma Jayanti) with initial ₹13,000-15,000 crore allocation.
• The main focus is on traditional craftsmen and workers, particularly from the OBC community.
• Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) as the coordinating body.
• Aiming to bolster unorganized sector workers facing financial challenges.
• The scheme covers 18 trades, enhancing livelihoods across multiple sectors.

Other Government Schemes and Efforts

• PM SVANidhi scheme allocated ₹50,000 crore for street vendors’ support.
• Direct deposit of ₹2.5 lakh crore into farmers’ accounts through PM Kisan Samman Nidhi.

Holistic Institutional Support for Artisans

• PM Vishwakarma Yojana provides comprehensive institutional assistance to artisans.
• Enhancing artisans’ skills, easier access to loans, and technical guidance.
• Aim to transform artisans into entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth.
• Improved product quality through appealing design, packaging, and branding.
• A dual focus on both domestic and international markets.

Significance 

• Elevating the status of craftsmen across the nation.
• Upskilling artisans and expanding the reach of their creations.
• Synergy with the MSME sector and access to global markets.
• Reinforcing India’s reputation as a hub of traditional arts.

Vishwakarma in Hinduism

• Vishwakarma is revered as the deity of craftsmanship in Hindu belief.
• Creator of divine chariots, weapons, and celestial palaces.
• Linked to various mythological narratives and intricate creations.