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PM Vishwakarma Yojana: The Central Government's PM Vishwakarma Yojana is proving to be a historic initiative aimed at economically empowering and fostering self-reliance among the country's traditional skilled workers, artisans, and craftspeople. The primary objective of this scheme is to boost the businesses of workers who rely on manual labor and traditional tools by providing them with financial assistance, modern skill training, and toolkits.

Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries can avail of loans up to ₹3 lakh without the need for collateral, at a concessional annual interest rate of just 5%.

**Loan Assistance and Financial Benefits under the Scheme**
Under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, beneficiaries receive loans of up to ₹3 lakh in two installments: ₹1 lakh as the first installment to start or organize the business, and ₹2 lakh as the second installment to expand it. Beneficiaries are required to pay an annual interest rate of only 5%, while the government bears the burden of the remaining interest subsidy (up to 8%). Additionally, upon completion of skill verification and training, a grant of ₹15,000 is provided in the form of e-RUPI vouchers for the purchase of modern tools. A financial allowance of ₹500 per day is also provided during the skill upgradation period.

**Beneficiaries from 18 Trades Eligible for the Scheme**
This scheme benefits artisans across 18 categories who earn their livelihood using manual skills and traditional tools. The list of eligible trades/professions covered under this scheme is provided below. Carpenter, Boat Maker, Armourer, Blacksmith, Hammer and Toolkit Maker, Locksmith, Goldsmith, Sculptor (Stone Carver), Potter, Cobbler (Shoe Artisan), Mason, Basket/Mat/Broom Maker, Doll and Toy Maker, Barber, Garland Maker, Washerman, Tailor, Fishing Net Maker.

**Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme**
**Age Limit:** The applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.

**Unorganized Sector:** The applicant must be self-employed in the unorganized sector and work as a manual artisan.

**Family Limit:** Only one member of a family (husband, wife, and unmarried children) can avail the benefits of the scheme.

**Government Service:** Individuals employed in government service or their family members are not eligible.

**Other Loan Schemes:** The applicant should not have availed a government loan under schemes like PMEGP, PM SVANidhi, or MUDRA in the last 5 years. However, if the previous loan has been fully repaid, you are eligible.

**How ​​to Apply?**
**Keep Documents Ready:** Have your Aadhaar card, active mobile number, bank account details, and ration card ready.
**Visit Nearest CSC Center:** Visit your nearest Common Service Center (CSC) to initiate digital registration.
**Biometric Authentication:** The CSC operator will complete your online registration on the portal using your Aadhaar card and biometric verification.
**Three-Tier Verification:** Your work will be verified at the Gram Panchayat/Urban Local Body, district, and state levels.
**ID Card and Certificate:** Upon successful verification, you will be issued a PM Vishwakarma ID Card and a digital certificate, making you eligible for loans, skill training, and a toolkit voucher worth ₹15,000. You can also visit the official PM Vishwakarma portal to check the status of the scheme and for more information.

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