PM Vishwakarma Yojana empowers over 24 lakh traditional artisans with modern skills, credit, market support
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana has provided basic skill training to over 24.29 lakh beneficiaries, with 93% reporting income increase post-training. The scheme formalizes 18 traditional trades and offers comprehensive support including credit, modern tools, and marketing assistance.
Background
Launched on 17 September 2023, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana aims to support artisans and craftspeople working with their hands and tools in 18 traditional occupations. It is implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
Key facts
PM Vishwakarma Yojana was launched on 17 September 2023.
Covers 18 traditional occupations: carpenter, boat maker, armorer, metal artisan, tool kit maker, locksmith, goldsmith, potter, sculptor/stone carver, cobbler/shoe artisan, mason, basket/mat/broom maker, toy maker (traditional), barber, garland maker, washerman, tailor, and fishing net maker.
Over 24.29 lakh beneficiaries have received basic skill training.
93% of trained beneficiaries reported income increase (from moderate to significant) as per concurrent evaluation by IIM Mumbai covering 11,591 beneficiaries across all states/UTs.
Beneficiaries receive skill upgradation, credit support, modern tools, digital incentives, and marketing support.
Marketing support includes trade fairs, state-level exhibitions, and online marketing via e-commerce platforms.
Beneficiaries are registered on the Udyam Assist Platform to access credit under priority sector lending.
Over 1,500 awareness camps, 50+ workshops, 82 state-level exhibitions, 37 trade fairs, and 50+ flash mobs have been organized.
The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of MSME.
Prelims pointers
- PM Vishwakarma Yojana
- Launched: 17 September 2023
- Ministry: Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME)
- Covers 18 traditional occupations
- Beneficiaries: over 24.29 lakh trained
- Concurrent evaluation by IIM Mumbai
- Udyam Assist Platform
- Priority sector lending for credit support
Mains angles
- GS2: Government policies and interventions for development of vulnerable sections – artisans and craftspeople.
- GS3: Inclusive growth and issues arising from informal sector; role of MSMEs in employment and income generation.
- GS3: Skill development and its impact on livelihood; linking traditional skills with modern markets.