PM VISHWAKARMA SCHEME

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Context: The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched by the Indian government on September 17, has received significant interest with over 21.15 lakh applications received within two and a half months, according to data from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Key details about the scheme and the applications received

• The scheme aims to provide skill-upgradation training and support to artisans and craftspeople.

Applications by State

• Karnataka led with 6.28 lakh applications, followed by West Bengal (4.04 lakh), Assam (1.83 lakh), Uttar Pradesh (1.53 lakh), and Andhra Pradesh (1.21 lakh).
• Fifteen states, including Haryana, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and northeastern states, had less than 10,000 applications each.

Applications by Occupation

• Tailors (darzi) accounted for 43% of the applications (9.13 lakh).
• Masons (mistri) constituted 22% (4.72 lakh).
• Carpenters (suthar) made up 9% (1.86 lakh).
• Basket-makers and barbers (naai) each contributed 4%.

Vetting Process

• Applications are being vetted at three levels—by village committees, district, and state levels.
• As of December 1, 17,758 candidates from 21 states are ready to undergo training.

Training and Financial Support

• Selected Candidates will undergo basic training (five to seven days) and advanced training (15 days) with a stipend of ₹500 per day.
• The budget envisaged for the scheme from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28 is ₹13,000 crore.

Master Trainers and Training Program

• In November, a five-day training program was held for 41 master trainers under the scheme across 10 states.
• Master trainers will teach various skills to barbers, tailors, masons, carpenters, doll and toy makers, and blacksmiths.

Financial Incentives

• After training, artisans will receive a tool kit incentive of ₹15,000 to purchase modern tools.
• Collateral-free loans at lower interest rates (approximately 8%) up to ₹1 lakh will be provided, along with an additional ₹2 lakh for setting up businesses.
• Artisans will be trained to upgrade their digital and financial skills to facilitate transactions and track earnings.

Conclusion

• The scheme aims to modernize traditional skills and create market linkages for individuals working in 18 trades and crafts. The target is to cover six lakh beneficiaries in FY 2023-24, with a focus on providing comprehensive support, training, and financial assistance to promote the growth of traditional artisans and craftspeople.

Must Read Articles:

Vishwakarma Scheme Launched: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/vishwakarma-scheme-launched

PM Vishwakarma: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/pm-vishwakarma

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. How does the PM Vishwakarma Scheme address the specific challenges faced by traditional artisans and craftspeople in adopting modern technologies and tools? What strategies are in place to ensure a smooth transition for these skilled workers, and how can potential obstacles be effectively mitigated to promote the successful integration of technology in their craft?