In a tribute to the craftsmanship, creativity, and tradition that define India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to launch the groundbreaking Vishwakarma scheme on September 17th, coinciding with Vishwakarma Jayanti and his own 73rd birthday. This visionary initiative, initially unveiled by PM Modi on Independence Day, carries a substantial budget of Rs 13,000 crore, entirely funded by the Central government. It stands as a powerful testament to his commitment to preserving and promoting India’s rich tapestry of traditional crafts and skills.
The Vishwakarma scheme represents far more than just financial support; it’s a rallying call to safeguard age-old traditions, culture, and the vast, diverse heritage of the nation. At its core, it champions local products and the artisans and craftsmen who breathe life into them.
As part of this visionary initiative, prospective beneficiaries will be provided with free registration through common service centers, leveraging biometric technology via the PM Vishwakarma portal. This step ensures that artisans and craftsmen are not burdened by unnecessary paperwork, enabling them to focus on honing their skills.
The Vishwakarma scheme goes beyond financial aid. It invests in the artisans’ future by providing basic and advanced training, effectively sharpening their skills. This equips them not just to survive but thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Empowering artisans with the right tools is paramount. Hence, the scheme extends a toolkit incentive of Rs 15,000. This investment is not just in equipment but in the artisans’ dreams, enabling them to create their masterpieces.
Financial stability is often the key to success for many artisans. The Vishwakarma scheme offers collateral-free credit support, providing a safety net of up to Rs 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs 2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of five percent. This support ensures that artisans can focus on their craft without the weight of financial worries.
In a digital age, embracing technology is vital. The scheme encourages artisans to adapt to digital transactions, opening new avenues for them to access financial services and expand their market reach. Recognizing this, the Vishwakarma scheme provides marketing support, helping artisans and craftsmen showcase their products to a wider audience.
The essence of the Vishwakarma scheme lies in nurturing the “Guru-Shishya parampara,” the age-old tradition of passing down skills from one generation to the next. This ensures the continuity of these invaluable practices, preserving India’s cultural heritage for generations to come.
This ambitious initiative covers eighteen traditional crafts, from carpenters to coir weavers, doll and toy makers to blacksmiths. By focusing on elevating product quality, expanding market access, and integrating artisans into both domestic and global value chains, the Vishwakarma scheme aims to breathe new life into the lives of rural and urban artisans and craftspeople across India.
In conclusion, the Vishwakarma scheme isn’t just a financial plan; it’s a commitment to preserving India’s cultural legacy and empowering those who have long been the unsung heroes of our heritage. It reflects the government’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and skill development, ensuring that traditional craftsmanship thrives in the modern era. This initiative is a beacon of hope for artisans and craftsmen, a testament to India’s rich tradition of creativity, and a step towards a brighter, more vibrant future.
