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The PM Vishwakarma Yojana was launched by the Government of India on 17th September 2023, to empower traditional artisans and craftspeople who work with their hands and tools. This Central Sector Scheme offers comprehensive support including training, modern toolkits, loans at concessional rates, and market linkages. It aims to preserve and promote India’s rich heritage of local craftsmanship while integrating these artisans into the formal economy.
PM Vishwakarma Yojana
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana focuses on uplifting traditional artisans through financial, technical, and social support. It benefits those engaged in 18 specific trades like carpentry, blacksmithing, pottery, tailoring, etc. The scheme provides ₹15,000 toolkit grants, skill training, and loans of ₹1 lakh and ₹2 lakh at 5% interest. Implemented by the Ministry of MSME, it encourages self-employment, dignity of labour, and skill enhancement.
PM Vishwakarma Yojana Overview
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana recognizes workers skilled in traditional crafts as “Vishwakarmas” and provides them formal recognition, financial access, and modern resources. It is expected to benefit 30 lakh families over 5 years and boost rural economies. The scheme promotes cultural continuity by preserving skills passed down through generations, while also fostering entrepreneurship through structured support.
| PM Vishwakarma Yojana Overview | |
| Feature | Details |
| Scheme Name | PM Vishwakarma Yojana |
| Launch Date | 17th September 2023 |
| Implementing Ministry | Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) |
| Budget Allocation | ₹13,000 crore (2023–2028) |
| Target Beneficiaries | Artisans/craftsmen in 18 identified trades |
| Loan Support | ₹1 lakh (1st tranche) & ₹2 lakh (2nd tranche) at 5% interest |
| Toolkit Incentive | ₹15,000 via e-voucher |
| Training Benefit | 5–15 days basic, 15 days advanced with stipend ₹500/day |
Also Read: PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana
18 Trades under PM Vishwakarma Yojana List
Before examining the table of trades, it’s important to understand that these occupations were chosen due to their cultural relevance and economic potential. These trades represent a wide range of rural and urban traditional services, many of which face extinction without state support. By formalizing them, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana creates both continuity and opportunity.
| List of 18 Trades under PM Vishwakarma Yojana | |
| Trade Name | Description |
| Carpenter (Suthar) | Wood-based furniture and construction work |
| Boat Maker | Crafting wooden boats for fishing/transport |
| Armourer | Maker of traditional weapons and armor |
| Blacksmith (Lohar) | Forging metal tools and instruments |
| Hammer & Tool Kit Maker | Making hammers, chisels, spades, etc. |
| Locksmith | Producing and repairing locks |
| Goldsmith (Sunar) | Jewellery and ornament making |
| Potter (Kumhar) | Making earthenware like pots and vessels |
| Sculptor, Stone Carver | Stone-based religious and decorative items |
| Cobbler (Charmkar) | Leather-based footwear and utility production |
| Mason (Rajmistri) | Traditional construction work |
| Basket, Mat, Broom Maker | Items from bamboo, coir, and natural fibers |
| Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional) | Handmade wooden or clay-based toys |
| Barber (Naai) | Haircutting and grooming services |
| Garland Maker | Crafting floral garlands for rituals and events |
| Washerman (Dhobi) | Washing and ironing clothes |
| Tailor (Darzi) | Custom clothing and stitching work |
| Fishing Net Maker | Crafting hand-woven nets for local fishermen |
Benefits under PM Vishwakarma Yojana
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana delivers benefits in six major areas: financial inclusion, skill development, formal recognition, digital empowerment, marketing support, and social security. Each of these addresses the vulnerabilities that traditional artisans face. It ensures not just one-time assistance but a sustainable upliftment path.
| Benefits under PM Vishwakarma Yojana | |
| Component | Benefit Details |
| Identity & Recognition | PM Vishwakarma ID & digital certificate |
| Toolkit Incentive | ₹15,000 via e-RUPI voucher |
| Skill Training | Basic + Advanced; stipend of ₹500/day |
| Credit Support | ₹1 lakh (1st loan) and ₹2 lakh (2nd loan) at 5% interest |
| Marketing Support | Exposure visits, exhibitions, local and global branding |
| Digital Empowerment | Incentive of ₹1 per digital transaction (max ₹100/month) |
Eligibility Criteria for PM Vishwakarma Yojana
This scheme emphasizes inclusivity and reach while maintaining authenticity of the trade. Aadhaar seeding, biometric authentication, and a one-benefit-per-household rule ensure transparency and accountability.
| Eligibility c for PM Vishwakarma Yojana for UPSC | |
| Eligible | Not Eligible |
| Indian citizens above 18 years | Government employees |
| Engaged in any of the 18 listed trades | Those not in listed trades |
| Working with hands in traditional occupation | Artisans working as contractors or employers |
| Not availing similar benefit from another scheme | Defaulters of bank loans, or those already in formal jobs |
PM Vishwakarma Yojana
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana holds importance across multiple UPSC GS papers. It addresses key themes like inclusion, cultural revival, rural employment, and financial empowerment.
| Eligibility Criteria for PM Vishwakarma Yojana | |
| UPSC Paper | How PM Vishwakarma Yojana is Relevant |
| GS II – Welfare Schemes | Government intervention for artisan welfare |
| GS III – Economy/Industry | MSME development, self-employment, traditional enterprise revival |
| Essay/Case Study | Model for grassroots empowerment through skill and cultural revival |
| Ethics Paper | Dignity of labour, inclusive governance, and responsibility to heritage |
FAQs: PM Vishwakarma Yojana
What is PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
It is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2023 to support traditional artisans in 18 trades through financial, technical, and institutional support.
How much loan is provided under PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
₹1 lakh in the first tranche and ₹2 lakh in the second, both at a concessional 5% interest rate.
What is the toolkit incentive in PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
₹15,000 is provided through a digital voucher to purchase modern toolkits.
Who implements PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
The Ministry of MSME in coordination with state governments and banks.
Why is PM Vishwakarma Yojana important for UPSC?
edge with modern governance.
