New Delhi, Jan 18 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Jitan Ram Manjhi, officially opened the PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 in the capital on Sunday. He praised this initiative as a vital platform for artisans and craftspeople from marginalized and underprivileged communities to display their craftsmanship through handcraft products.

On this momentous occasion, the ambassadors of Iraq and Rwanda were in attendance, alongside senior officials from the MSME Ministry, representatives from various States and Union Territories, artisans, and other stakeholders.

While touring the exhibition stalls, Jitan Ram Manjhi, accompanied by Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State (MoS) for MSME, underscored the sector’s critical importance in driving the Indian economy.

He expressed that PM Vishwakarma Haat provides an essential opportunity for village-level artisans to market their creations.

According to Shobha Karandlaje, it is truly uplifting to see over 117 artisans from a variety of States and Union Territories come together on this platform.

The PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 at Dilli Haat is being held from January 18 to 31, celebrating India’s rich craftsmanship with enthusiasm and grandeur. The exhibition is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Manjhi congratulated the organizers, stating: "PM Vishwakarma furnishes an invaluable platform for village artisans to market their creations, and this effort is commendable."

He elaborated on the significance of 'Vishwakarma,' commending the vision behind the initiative, asserting that under the adept leadership of PM Modi, this scheme is enabling every Vishwakarma across the nation to access markets and contribute to the country’s growth.

MoS for MSME Shobha Karandlaje reiterated: "It is indeed inspiring to observe the participation of over 117 artisans from various States and Union Territories at the PM Vishwakarma Haat."

Notably, the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma scheme offers a comprehensive array of benefits to artisans, including the issuance of a PM Vishwakarma Identity Card and Certificate, skill training with a daily stipend of Rs 500, and toolkit incentives up to Rs 15,000.

Beneficiaries can also secure collateral-free loans of up to Rs 3 lakh, along with incentives for embracing digital transactions. The scheme further aids artisans through marketing support, including product branding, packaging, and e-commerce facilitation.

S.C.L. Das, Secretary of the Ministry of MSME, emphasized the significance of PM Vishwakarma as a transformative initiative, highlighting how the diverse capabilities of Vishwakarmas genuinely reflect the vision of “Virasat se Vikas.” He noted the adeptness with which Vishwakarmas are upholding their traditional skills through this scheme.

Dr. Rajneesh, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, Ministry of MSME, stated that Vishwakarmas are crucial to the growth of the Indian economy and elaborated on the benefits of the scheme, explaining how it enhances marketing opportunities for artisans.

The event also featured cultural programs and folk dance performances themed around Bihar and Rajasthan, enriching the atmosphere and showcasing India's vibrant cultural diversity.