The Central Government’s PM Vishwakarma Yojana has emerged as a major support system for artisans and craftsmen who preserve India’s traditional skills. Launched in 2023, the scheme aims to strengthen artisans financially while connecting their work with modern markets.

If you are engaged in traditional occupations and want to expand your small business, this government initiative can help turn your skills into sustainable income.

PM Vishwakarma Yojana: Financial Security Through Skills

The biggest highlight of the scheme is its collateral-free loan facility. Eligible artisans can avail loans of up to ₹3 lakh at a concessional interest rate of just 5% to start or grow their businesses.

The loan is provided in two stages:

• First Stage:
  Loan of up to ₹1 lakh, repayable within 18 months

• Second Stage:
  After timely repayment of the first loan, beneficiaries become eligible for an additional ₹2 lakh, with a repayment period of 30 months

More Than Just Loans: Training and Toolkits

The scheme goes beyond financial assistance. Beneficiaries also receive modern skill training to enhance productivity and market reach.

• Training stipend: ₹500 per day

• Toolkit support: E-voucher worth ₹15,000 for purchasing essential tools and equipment

This ensures artisans can upgrade their skills without affecting their daily livelihood.

Who Can Benefit from PM Vishwakarma Yojana?

The scheme covers 18 traditional occupations, including:

• Masons, carpenters, blacksmiths, goldsmiths

• Potters, cobblers, barbers, washermen

• Tailors, garland makers, fish-net makers

• Locksmiths, stone carvers, sculptors

• Toy makers, basket and broom makers, boat makers

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

To apply for PM Vishwakarma Yojana:

• Applicant must be 18 years or older

• Only one member per family is eligible

• Applicant must not have availed benefits of similar self-employment schemes (such as Mudra or PM SVANidhi) in the last five years

How to apply:

• Visit your nearest Common Service Center (CSC)

• Or register online through the official PM Vishwakarma portal

Conclusion

PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a strong step toward empowering India’s traditional artisans by providing financial support, skill training, and modern tools. For craftsmen looking to scale their businesses, this scheme offers both opportunity and stability.