Patna, March 16 (NationPress) A two-day exhibition-cum-trade fair is taking place at the International Convention Centre in Rajgir. This event, organized by the MSME Development Office (Patna), is attracting large audiences and presenting a diverse array of products.

The fair was officially opened by Jitan Ram Manjhi, the Union Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME). Its main goal is to offer a platform for showcasing the talents of traditional artisans and craftspeople while broadening the market for their offerings.

Many artisans from several districts of Bihar, affiliated with the PM Vishwakarma Yojana — such as carpenters, blacksmiths, potters, goldsmiths, tailors, masons, cobblers, and barbers — have made significant contributions, displaying their artisanal creations. Fair attendees are appreciating these products and uplifting local artisans by purchasing swadeshi goods.

This initiative is proving essential in assisting craftspeople in marketing their goods and increasing their income.

Several beneficiaries at the fair conveyed that the training and financial backing they received through the scheme have revitalized their traditional trades. While some artisans are adopting modern machinery to innovate their products, many women have discovered job opportunities from their homes through sewing, embroidery, and various crafts.

Many beneficiaries expressed that the scheme has empowered them to achieve self-sufficiency, and this fair has provided them with an opportunity to display their skills and connect with new clients, enhancing their job prospects and income.

Artisans and beneficiaries shared their experiences and extended their gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this initiative.

They highlighted that the scheme has not only fortified their traditional crafts but has also granted them access to modern technology, financial support, and new prospects.

Sanoj Kumar from Gaya and Ghanshyam Vishwakarma from Rohtas mentioned receiving a loan of Rs 1 lakh post-training.

Ghanshyam is crafting nameplates and cutting acrylic with a CNC machine, while Sanoj is creating exquisite statues of Lord Buddha. They noted that upon repaying their initial loan, they would qualify for an additional loan of Rs 2 lakhs to further grow their businesses.

Jyoti Kumari from Biharsharif and Sinku Devi from Saluganj shared that, in addition to their tailoring training, they received a stipend and a complete toolkit, which includes a free motorized sewing machine.

Pratima Devi from Masaurhi, who runs a small shop assembling toys, praised the scheme as one that socially and financially empowers them.

Aditya Raj from Patna stated that after completing a five-day free training program at ITI Digha, he received a certificate and a toolkit valued at approximately Rs 15,000, containing equipment such as a washing machine and an iron. This has allowed him to conduct his work using contemporary methods.

Arvind Ravidas, a sculptor from Gaya, expressed that he gained the opportunity to learn techniques for producing new items that meet market demand and diversify his craft.

Importantly, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a central government initiative designed to provide comprehensive support to traditional artisans and craftsmen to elevate their conventional products and services.