The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme (PM Vishwakarma Yojana) is a landmark initiative launched by the Government of India on September 17, 2023, aimed at uplifting traditional artisans and craftsmen engaged in family-based, unorganized sectors. This visionary Central Sector Scheme, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), seeks to provide comprehensive financial, technical, and skill development support to these artisans. By integrating them into the formal economy and enhancing their livelihoods, PM Vishwakarma is set to preserve India’s rich cultural heritage while fostering economic growth.
What is the PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
PM Vishwakarma Scheme is designed to empower artisans and craftspeople working in 18 traditional trades by offering them collateral-free loans, skill upgradation training, modern toolkits, and market access. The scheme recognizes the invaluable contribution of these artisans, often referred to as “Vishwakarmas,” and aims to provide them with dignity, skill enhancement, and financial stability.
The scheme’s core objective is to transform traditional craftsmanship by blending age-old skills with modern technology and innovation. This will help artisans improve product quality, increase competitiveness, and secure sustainable livelihoods.
Key Features and Benefits of PM Vishwakarma Scheme
1. Collateral-Free Enterprise Development Loans
Artisans can avail collateral-free loans of up to ₹3 lakh to expand or modernize their enterprises. The loans are disbursed in two installments: ₹1 lakh initially and ₹2 lakh after meeting certain conditions such as digital transaction adoption and loan account maintenance. The repayment period extends up to 30 months with an attractive concessional interest rate of 5%, supplemented by an 8% interest subvention from the government.
2. Skill Development and Training
The scheme provides basic and advanced training programs conducted by master trainers in respective trades. Basic training lasts 5-7 days, while advanced training extends up to 15 days. During training, beneficiaries receive a stipend of ₹500 per day, along with travel allowance and free board and lodging facilities. This skill upgradation enhances their craftsmanship and productivity.
3. Toolkit Incentive
To facilitate modernization, artisans receive a toolkit incentive of up to ₹15,000. These toolkits include modern and advanced tools relevant to their trades, enabling them to improve efficiency and product quality.
4. Digital and Market Access Support
PM Vishwakarma encourages artisans to adopt digital transactions and provides a platform to connect with broader markets. Registration on the Udyam Assist Platform as MSME entrepreneurs helps artisans gain formal recognition and access government schemes and benefits.
5. Recognition and Certification
Beneficiaries receive a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and Digital ID card, conferring official recognition and “Samman” (honor) for their skills and contribution. This recognition boosts their social status and opens doors to further opportunities.
Who is Eligible for PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
The scheme targets artisans and craftsmen aged 18 to 60 years engaged in the following 18 traditional trades:
Carpenter (Suthar/Badhai)
Boat Maker
Armourer
Blacksmith (Lohar)
Hammer and Tool Kit Maker
Locksmith
Goldsmith (Sonar)
Potter (Kumhaar)
Sculptor (Moortikar/Stone Carver)
Stone Breaker
Cobbler (Charmkar)/Shoesmith/Footwear Artisan
Mason (Rajmistri)
Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver
Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional)
Barber (Naai)
Garland Maker (Malakaar)
Washerman (Dhobi)
Tailor (Darzi)
Fishing Net Maker
Additional Eligibility Criteria:
Must be engaged in family-based traditional trades in the unorganized sector.
Should not have availed similar government loans in the past five years (exceptions apply for fully repaid MUDRA and SVANidhi loans).
Must possess Aadhaar card and other identity proofs.
Registration and verification are done through Common Service Centres (CSCs) with biometric authentication.
How to Apply for PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
Step 1: Registration
Visit the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or the official PM Vishwakarma portal (pmvishwakarma.gov.in) to complete Aadhaar-based eKYC and mobile verification.
Step 2: Fill Artisan Registration Form
Submit details such as personal information, trade details, identity proofs, and bank account information.
Step 3: Training Enrollment
After registration, artisans can enroll for basic and advanced skill development training programs.
Step 4: Loan Application
Post training, eligible artisans can apply for collateral-free loans through the scheme’s portal or CSCs.
Step 5: Receive Certification
Upon successful registration and training completion, artisans receive the PM Vishwakarma Certificate and Digital ID.
Impact and Success Stories
Since its launch, PM Vishwakarma has witnessed overwhelming response, with over 2.37 crore applications received nationwide. For example, in Karnataka alone, nearly 29 lakh artisans enrolled, with over 3.93 lakh beneficiaries registered and more than 35,000 loans sanctioned totaling over ₹305 crore.
The scheme has empowered artisans by providing them with financial independence, skill enhancement, and market access. Many artisans have upgraded their traditional crafts using modern tools and digital platforms, resulting in better product quality and increased income. The government’s focus on “Samman, Samarthya, and Samriddhi” (Honor, Capability, and Prosperity) encapsulates the transformative vision of PM Vishwakarma.
Why PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a Game-Changer?
Preserves India’s Cultural Heritage: By supporting traditional trades, the scheme safeguards centuries-old craftsmanship.
Promotes Financial Inclusion: Collateral-free loans and interest subvention make financial resources accessible to marginalized artisans.
Boosts Employment and Entrepreneurship: Skill training and enterprise development foster self-employment and job creation.
Encourages Digital Adoption: Promotes digital payments and formalization of the unorganized sector.
Enhances Social Status: Official recognition through certificates and IDs uplifts the artisans’ social dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the maximum loan amount under PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
A1: The scheme offers collateral-free loans up to ₹3 lakh, disbursed in two tranches of ₹1 lakh and ₹2 lakh.
Q2: Who can apply for the PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
A2: Artisans aged 18-60 engaged in 18 specified traditional trades, without similar loans in the last five years, are eligible.
Q3: Is there any interest subsidy on the loan?
A3: Yes, the government provides an 8% interest subvention, making the effective interest rate 5%.
Q4: What kind of training is provided under the scheme?
A4: Basic training (5-7 days) and advanced training (up to 15 days) by master trainers, with daily stipend and travel allowance.
Q5: How can I register for the scheme?
A5: Registration can be done online at the official portal or offline at Common Service Centres (CSCs) with Aadhaar-based biometric verification.
Q6: Are toolkits provided?
A6: Yes, artisans receive a toolkit incentive of up to ₹15,000 to modernize their work.
Q7: Does the scheme cover urban and rural artisans?
A7: Yes, it is a nationwide scheme covering artisans across both urban and rural areas.