Mandi Residents Receive Formal Training Under PM Vishwakarma Scheme
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Shimla, Dec 6 (NationPress) As part of the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, laborers, masons, and artisans in Himachal's Mandi district are receiving structured training in a total of 18 trades to equip them with diverse skills and expertise.
Prominent institutions such as the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Hamirpur and IIT Mandi have been enlisted for this initiative.
The training centers are providing a seven-day training program to numerous workers.
Additionally, master trainers are also receiving training to enhance their competencies in approximately 18 trades.
Beneficiaries are offered a daily stipend of Rs 500, along with a PM Vishwakarma certificate, an identity card, and a toolkit valued at Rs 15,000.
Moreover, a loan of Rs 3 lakh is available at a 5 percent interest rate.
According to Bhanu Marwah, Professor in the Department of Architecture at NIT Hamirpur, master trainers are being instructed on the utilization of modern equipment to ensure precise results in construction activities.
Professor Sandeep Sharma from the Department of Architecture mentioned that a program has been initiated to engage masons, providing training through the Architecture Department at NIT in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Commissioner.
He further shared that trainees are required to take an examination following their training period.
Professor Ashwani Kumar from the Department of Architecture stated that masons traditionally worked with conventional tools, but now they are learning about new technologies, which will significantly assist in revitalizing the workforce with fresh talent.
The PM Vishwakarma scheme, launched by the Central government in 2023, aims to offer comprehensive support to artisans and craftsmen who work manually with tools.
Artisans and craftsmen are being trained in various trades, including carpenter (suthar/badhai), boat maker, armourer, blacksmith (lohar), hammer and tool kit maker, locksmith, goldsmith (sunaar), potter (kumhaar), sculptor (moortikaar), stone carver, stone breaker, cobbler, mason (rajmistri), basket/mat/broom maker, coir weaver, toy maker (traditional), barber (naai), garland maker (malakaar), washerman (dhobi), tailor (darzi), and fishing net maker.
