The Pradhan Mantri (PM) Vishwakarma Yojana is a major Central government flagship scheme launched to empower artisans, craftspeople and skilled workers in india who operate traditional hand‑tool based trades. It was first introduced on 17 September 2023 and continues through 2026 with expanded support.
The core idea is to bring economic prosperity, recognition and modern tools to small‑scale traditional businesses that form an important part of India’s unorganized sector.
🎯 18 Trades/Businesses Covered
Under the scheme, the government has identified 18 traditional trades whose practitioners can get benefits such as loans, training, tools, and market support.
These include:
Carpenter (Suthar/Badhai)
Boat Maker
Armourer/Weapon Maker
Blacksmith (Lohar)
Hammer & Tool Kit Maker
Locksmith
Goldsmith (Sonar)
Potter (Kumhaar)
Sculptor / Stone Carver
Stone Breaker
Cobbler / Footwear Artisan
Mason (Rajmistri)
Basket/Mat/Broom Maker / Coir Weaver
Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional)
Barber (Naai)
Garland Maker (Malakaar)
Washerman (Dhobi)
Tailor (Darzi)
Fishing Net Maker (Note: Some lists include similar artisan trades counted within 18 categories)
🛠️ These represent family‑based, hand‑tool oriented traditional trades — many of which have been passed down generation to generation in India.
💼 What Support Is Provided
Under the scheme, eligible artisans from these 18 trades can receive a host of benefits:
💰 Collateral‑Free Loans
- Loans up to around ₹3,00,000 for business expansion.
- Offered at a concessional interest rate (~5%).
- No collateral or guarantor required.
🧰 Toolkit Incentive
- Beneficiaries receive a voucher or incentive (~₹15,000) to buy tools and equipment to modernize their work.
📚 Skill Support & Training
- Artisans can receive basic/advanced training to improve skills and adopt improved techniques.
- A stipend (e.g., ₹500/day) may be given during training.
🌐 Recognition & Marketing Assistance
- Beneficiaries are given a PM Vishwakarma ID & certificate, which helps with formal recognition and accessing other benefits.
- The scheme also supports branding, packaging and even digital/e‑commerce exposure to help artisans reach larger markets.
📲 Digital Incentives
- In some cases, incentives are offered for wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital transactions and use of modern technology to grow business.
🎯 How Many people It Helps
- According to official reports and progress figures, the scheme has already registered 30 lakh+ artisans, with ongoing expansion targets for Phase II and beyond.
- The budget for the scheme has been approved at around ₹13,000 crore to implement these benefits broadly across the country.
🪪 Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Highlights)
To be eligible:
- The person must be 18 years or older.
- Must be self‑employed in one of the 18 traditional trades above.
- Must not have taken similar government self‑employment loans in the past ~5 years.
- Only one family member (spouse or unmarried children) per household is eligible.
People living in both rural and urban areas are eligible — residence location does not matter as long as they are engaged in the trade.
📌 Goal & Vision
Prime minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the scheme’s goal of not only giving financial support but also elevating traditional artisans into the modern economy — enabling them to compete, access global value chains, and sustain livelihoods in an evolving market environment.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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