PM Vishwakarma Scheme Third Anniversary Achievements
The Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises celebrated the third anniversary of the PM Vishwakarma scheme at Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Kolkata, West Bengal, marking three years of implementation aimed at strengthening livelihoods, skills, and entrepreneurial capabilities of traditional artisans and craftspeople.
The scheme has achieved significant milestones with 30 lakh beneficiaries registered nationwide since its launch on 17th September 2023. Approximately 24.50 lakh artisans have received Basic Skill Training, while 18.15 lakh modern toolkits have been delivered through India Post. Financial support has been substantial, with 6.18 lakh Vishwakarmas receiving loans up to ₹1 lakh each at a concessional interest rate of 5% per annum, totaling ₹5,297 crore in disbursements.
West Bengal Implementation
West Bengal recently onboarded for scheme implementation in May 2026, with the Kolkata event marking the first programme of Ministry of MSME under this scheme in the state. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari reported that more than 7 lakh applications have been received from West Bengal and committed to expediting facilitative support for artisans to avail scheme benefits. The state government assured coordinated efforts with the Ministry of MSME for effective and timely implementation across West Bengal.
Ministerial Addresses and Commitments
Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi highlighted the scheme's comprehensive support structure including skill training, modern toolkit provisioning, institutional credit, and market linkages. Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje emphasized the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs for building stronger families, communities, and contributing to a prosperous Viksit Bharat. West Bengal's MSME Minister Dipak Barman acknowledged the scheme as a transformative initiative for traditional artisans, enabling sustainable livelihoods and enterprise development.
Event Proceedings
The anniversary celebration included an exhibition showcasing traditional arts and crafts of Vishwakarma artisans, inaugurated by Union and State ministers. During the event, PM Vishwakarma ID/certificates, toolkits, and cheques of ₹1.00 lakh each were distributed to Vishwakarmas of West Bengal. The event was attended by over 2000 Vishwakarmas and Panchayat functionaries from various districts, along with officials from Ministry of MSME, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Department of Financial Services, banks, India Post, and West Bengal government.