PM Modi Launches ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Scheme to Support Traditional Artisans

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme on Sunday, emphasizing the critical role of technology, tools, and training in the future. The scheme focuses on providing specialized training to Vishwakarma partners, offering a Rs 500 stipend during training, along with a Rs 1,500 Toolkit voucher. Additionally, the government pledges support in branding, packaging, and marketing of their products, with the condition to purchase toolkits from GST-registered shops.

Inaugurating the international exhibition center ‘Yashobhoomi’ in Dwarka, Modi hailed it as a testament to the dedication of Vishwakarma artisans. He declared the center a valuable resource for them and a catalyst for promoting Indian art and handicrafts globally, emphasizing the crucial role of Vishwakarma artisans in society.

PM Modi stressed the need to recognize and support Vishwakarma partners, announcing an investment of Rs 13,000 crores in the ‘PM Vishwakarma’ scheme. On Vishwakarma Jayanti, he expressed his wishes and highlighted the scheme as a ray of hope for artists and craftspersons.

Under this scheme, the government offers loans up to Rs 3 lakhs without the need for a bank guarantee, with low-interest rates. Initially, a Rs 1 lakh loan is provided, followed by an additional Rs 2 lakhs once the first is repaid.

Modi also highlighted the potential of conference tourism in India, aiming to tap into a global industry worth over Rs 25 lakh crores. India’s current participation in this sector is only 1%, and he sees Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi as pivotal in establishing Delhi as a major hub for conference tourism.

Commerce minister Piyush Goyal and finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman joined the event, underscoring the government’s commitment to boosting the Vishwakarma community and promoting conference tourism in India.