PM
VISWAKARMA SCHEME – GOVERNMENT SCHEME
News:
21.15 lakh applications
received under PM Vishwakarma Scheme, says Skill Ministry
What's
in the news?
●
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched by the
Centre, has received over 21 lakh applications in two and a half months, data
from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) show.
PM
Vishwakarma Scheme:
●
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme boasts an
impressive allocation of Rs 13,000
crore, fully funded by the Central government.
Objective:
●
It aims to benefit individuals
predominantly from the OBC community engaged in traditional skills and crafts such as carpentry, gold-smithing,
masonry, laundry services, and more.
Key
takeaways:
●
The scheme derives its name from
Vishwakarma, a revered figure in Hindu mythology known as the architect of the
gods.
●
Vishwakarma was the divine carpenter and
master craftsman responsible for crafting the gods' weapons, building their
cities and chariots.
●
He is considered the patron deity of
workers, artisans and artists.
Eligibility
for the Scheme:
Supported
Sectors:
●
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme extends
assistance to families associated with 18
diverse sectors, including carpentry, boat making, blacksmithing,
goldsmithing, pottery and more.
Registration:
●
Vishwakarma workers can register for free
through Common Services Centres
using the biometric-based PM Vishwakarma
portal.
Features
of the Scheme:
1.
Recognition:
●
Workers will receive recognition through
the PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
2.
Skill Upgradation:
●
The scheme offers basic and advanced
training to enhance skills.
3.
Toolkit Incentive:
●
Artisans receive a toolkit incentive of
₹15,000.
4.
Credit Support:
●
Collateral-free credit support is provided
up to 1 lakh (first tranche) and 2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional
interest rate of 5%.
5.
Digital Transactions:
●
Incentives for digital transactions and
marketing support are available.
6.
Knowledge Enhancement:
●
A toolkit booklet, available in 12 Indian
languages with accompanying videos, helps workers stay updated on new
technologies in their field.
7.
Skill Training Stipend:
●
Artisans can benefit from a stipend of Rs
500 for skill training and Rs 1,500 for purchasing modern tools.
8.
Coverage:
●
The scheme aims to cover five lakh
families in the first year and 30lakh families over five years.
9.
Global Integration:
●
It also seeks to integrate Vishwakarma
into domestic and global value chains.