Union Cabinet’s approval of ₹13,000 crore PM Vishwakarma scheme
In a commendable move towards supporting and uplifting traditional artisans, the Union Cabinet, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has greenlit the ₹13,000 crore PM Vishwakarma scheme. This transformative initiative seeks to benefit an estimated 30 lakh skilled craftsmen, including weavers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, laundry workers, and barbers, providing them with a much-needed boost to their livelihoods. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s announcement sheds light on the scheme’s comprehensive approach to skill development and financial assistance.
Skill Development for Empowerment
The PM Vishwakarma scheme’s first tranche focuses on skill development through basic and advanced training programs. Under this phase, participants will receive a stipend of ₹500 per day during their training, a critical support that recognizes the importance of honing traditional craftsmanship. This emphasis on skill enhancement not only preserves traditional arts but also equips artisans with the tools they need to excel in today’s competitive market.
Financial Assistance: Tools and Loans
Acknowledging the significance of modern tools in enhancing productivity, the scheme extends up to ₹15,000 in support for artisans to purchase state-of-the-art equipment. This provision can have a transformative effect on their efficiency and output. Additionally, the scheme offers up to ₹1 lakh in loans at an impressively low maximum interest rate of 5%. This financial assistance aims to empower artisans by easing their access to capital, enabling them to expand their businesses and reach new heights.
Credit and Market Support
The second tranche of the PM Vishwakarma scheme focuses on credit and market support, providing a well-rounded approach to boosting traditional artisan businesses. Artisans will be eligible for credit support of up to ₹2 lakh, a crucial resource that can aid in scaling up operations and exploring new opportunities. Moreover, the inclusion of market support underlines the government’s commitment to ensuring a conducive environment for artisans to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers.
Prime Minister Modi’s Vision
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary approach to supporting traditional artisans was evident in his Independence Day address. The announcement of the Vishwakarma Yojana with an allocation ranging from ₹13,000 crore to ₹15,000 crore signifies the government’s dedication to uplifting skilled individuals engaged in traditional craftsmanship. By empowering weavers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, laundry workers, barbers, and their families, the Vishwakarma Yojana contributes to both economic growth and cultural preservation.
Conclusion
The PM Vishwakarma scheme’s approval stands as a testament to the Indian government’s commitment to preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage while promoting economic empowerment. As the scheme’s multi-faceted approach unfolds, traditional artisans across various domains will have the opportunity to enhance their skills, access financial resources, and tap into a supportive market ecosystem. The scheme’s impact has the potential to be far-reaching, breathing new life into age-old crafts and fostering a brighter future for skilled craftsmen from diverse backgrounds.
