In a landmark moment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ‘PM Vishwakarma Scheme’ on the auspicious occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, dedicating it to traditional artisans and craftspeople. This significant initiative aims to uplift and support skilled artisans and craftsmen, recognizing their invaluable contribution to India’s cultural and economic heritage.
The launch ceremony witnessed the unveiling of the PM Vishwakarma logo, tagline, and portal. Additionally, a customized stamp sheet, a toolkit e-booklet, and a video were released to commemorate the occasion. Prime Minister Modi personally distributed Vishwakarma Certificates to 18 deserving beneficiaries.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi extended his warmest wishes for Vishwakarma Jayanti, emphasizing its significance in honoring traditional artisans and craftspeople. He expressed his delight at connecting with millions of Vishwakarmas nationwide and commended the vibrant exhibition showcasing the artisans’ skills. He invited citizens to visit the exhibition, affirming that the PM Vishwakarma scheme brings a ray of hope to lakhs of artisans and their families.
The Prime Minister underscored the pivotal role of Vishwakarmas in Indian society, emphasizing their enduring significance, irrespective of technological advancements. He emphasized the need to recognize and support these artisans, affirming the government’s partnership in enhancing their respect, capabilities, and prosperity.
“The Government has come forward as a partner to elevate the respect, enhance the capabilities, and grow the prosperity of the Vishwakarmas,” stated Prime Minister Modi. He highlighted that the PM Vishwakarma Scheme encompasses 18 focus areas, encompassing artisans such as carpenters, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, sculptors, potters, cobblers, tailors, masons, hairdressers, washermen, and more, with an estimated expenditure of ₹13,000 crores.
The Prime Minister emphasized the increasing demand for handmade products globally and the opportunity for artisans to become integral components of the global supply chain. He stated, “This scheme is an effort to take the Vishwakarma friends into the modern age.”
Recognizing the evolving times, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of training, technology, and tools for artisans. During training, the government will provide a daily allowance of Rs. 500 to Vishwakarma friends and offer a toolkit voucher worth Rs. 15,000 for modern equipment. Additionally, the government will aid in branding, packaging, and marketing of their products, with a call to purchase toolkits only from GST-registered shops featuring “Made in India” tools.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the ‘One District, One Product’ scheme, encouraging unique district-specific products, along with financial support for street vendors via the PM Svanidhi Scheme. He emphasized his commitment to serving those in need and ensuring the delivery of services with dignity and reliability.
Highlighting the amalgamation of technology and tradition witnessed at the G20 Craft Bazaar, Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative and encouraged citizens to purchase local products, particularly those crafted by Vishwakarma artisans.
Joining the Prime Minister in this noble endeavor, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, hailed the PM Vishwakarma Yojana as a testimony to Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to uplifting every stratum of society. He underlined the scheme’s potential to empower artisans and create a new ecosystem, driving India toward self-reliance and global competitiveness.
The ceremony was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Bimal Borah, Minister of Industries & Commerce and Public Enterprises, and Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam; Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) for Guwahati, Queen Oja; Ramen Deka, Vice Chairman, SITA; Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Pabitra Margherita; Mrigen Saraniya, Mayor, Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), and numerous artisans and workers set to benefit from the PM Vishwakarma Yojna. This visionary scheme reflects India’s steadfast journey toward becoming an Atmanirbhar Bharat, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s transformative leadership.
