The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched on September 17, 2023, provides comprehensive support to traditional artisans and craftspeople across 18 specified trades including Carpenter, Boat Maker, Armourer, Metal Artisan, Tool Kit Maker, Locksmith, Goldsmith, Potter, Sculptor/Stone Worker, Cobbler/Footwear Artisan, Mason, Basket/Mat/Broom Maker, Toy Maker (Traditional), Barber, Garland Maker, Washerman, Tailor, and Fishing Net Maker. The scheme offers end-to-end holistic support including skill upgradation, credit support, modern toolkits, digital incentives, and comprehensive marketing support through both physical events and online platforms.
As of current data, 24.29 lakh beneficiaries have received basic skill training under the scheme. The training enhances beneficiaries' skills by introducing them to modern tools, best practices, innovative designs, digital transactions, and entrepreneurial knowledge. Beneficiaries are also onboarded onto the Udyam Assist Platform to access benefits under various government schemes, including priority sector lending, enabling them to scale operations, modernize tools, and enter the formal economy as entrepreneurs.
A concurrent evaluation conducted by IIM Mumbai covering 11,591 beneficiaries across all States and Union Territories, incorporating feedback from bank officials, Common Service Centres, India Post personnel, and training centers, found that 93% of beneficiaries reported moderate to significant increase in income following training, demonstrating tangible economic benefits from the acquired skills.
The scheme provides extensive marketing support including over 1,500 awareness programs/camps, more than 50 workshops, 82 trade fairs, 37 State-level exhibitions, and over 50 flash mobs organized across both rural and urban areas. Online marketing support is provided through various e-commerce platforms to promote domestic and international sales of their products. Successfully registered artisans become eligible for all scheme benefits after completing three levels of verification.