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The central government’s PM Vishwakarma Scheme has emerged as a major support system for India’s traditional artisans and skilled workers. Launched in 2023, the scheme aims to preserve age-old crafts while helping artisans modernize their businesses and become financially self-reliant. From carpenters and blacksmiths to tailors and potters, this initiative is designed to uplift those who form the backbone of India’s informal economy.

For individuals engaged in traditional occupations who wish to expand their small enterprises or start afresh, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana provides not just financial assistance but also skill development, training, and essential tools.

Affordable Credit with Government Backing

One of the biggest highlights of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is its collateral-free loan facility. Eligible artisans can avail loans of up to ₹3 lakh at a highly subsidized interest rate of just 5%, making it far more affordable than conventional bank loans.

The loan is disbursed in two structured phases:

• Phase One: Beneficiaries receive an initial loan of up to ₹1 lakh, which must be repaid within 18 months.

• Phase Two: After successful and timely repayment of the first loan, applicants become eligible for an additional ₹2 lakh, repayable over 30 months.

This step-by-step approach ensures financial discipline while gradually increasing access to higher credit.

More Than Just a Loan: Training and Toolkit Support

The scheme goes beyond financial aid. Beneficiaries are enrolled in modern skill training programmes aimed at improving productivity, quality, and market access. During the training period, artisans receive a daily stipend of ₹500, ensuring that learning does not affect their regular income.

Additionally, the government provides a ₹15,000 e-voucher to purchase essential tools and equipment. This toolkit support enables artisans to upgrade their work processes and compete effectively in today’s market.

Who Can Benefit from the PM Vishwakarma Scheme?

The scheme covers 18 traditional professions, ensuring wide inclusion across sectors. Some of the key occupations eligible under the programme include:

• Carpenters, masons, blacksmiths, and goldsmiths

• Potters, cobblers, barbers, and washermen

• Tailors, garland makers, and fishing net makers

• Locksmiths, stone carvers, sculptors

• Toy makers, basket and broom makers, and boat builders

This broad coverage reflects the government’s focus on preserving traditional livelihoods while enhancing their earning potential.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

To apply for the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Minimum age of 18 years

• Only one member per family can avail the benefit

• The applicant should not have taken loans under similar central schemes such as PM Mudra Yojana or PM SVANidhi in the last five years

Eligible individuals can apply by visiting their nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or through the official PM Vishwakarma portal. The registration process is straightforward and digitally enabled to ensure transparency and easy access.