Did 30 lakh artisans join the PM Vishwakarma Scheme in just 2 years?

New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) Approximately 30 lakh artisans and craftsmen have enrolled in the PM Vishwakarma Scheme over the past two years. In support of their business development, the government has approved more than 4.7 lakh loans totaling Rs 41,188 crore.

Out of these, nearly 26 lakh artisans have undergone skill verification, with 86 percent successfully completing their basic training. The most popular trade registered under the scheme is Raajmistri (Mason).

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme stands out as a pivotal government initiative aimed at uplifting traditional artisans and empowering their crafts.

To furnish skilled workers with essential tools and promote modern technology, over 23 lakh e-vouchers have been distributed as part of toolkit incentives.

Launched on September 17, 2023, coinciding with Vishwakarma Day, the scheme has a financial allocation of Rs 13,000 crore for the period from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28.

The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana aims to enhance the livelihoods of artisans by improving their skills and broadening the market reach of their products.

This initiative is designed to offer comprehensive support to artisans and craftspeople in their trades. It emphasizes the promotion of trades in both rural and urban settings, particularly focusing on empowering women and marginalized groups, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, the Specially Abled, Transgenders, and residents of North Eastern states, Island Territories, and Hilly Areas.

To ensure extensive coverage across districts, District Project Management Units (DPMUs) have been established in nearly all districts. Their role includes raising awareness about the benefits of the scheme and informing artisans about training schedules, locations, and compliance with training guidelines.

As of July 2025, 497 DPMUs have been appointed, covering 618 districts nationwide.

With the collaboration of various ministries and DPMUs, the scheme aims to recognize artisans as Vishwakarmas, equipping them with skill training, modern tools, and easy access to collateral-free credit, along with incentives for digital transactions. It also focuses on brand promotion and market connections, allowing artisans to improve productivity, quality, and growth prospects.

This initiative unites small artisans under a single umbrella, providing them with recognition and support. It prioritizes financial assistance, skill enhancement, and connections to global markets. These efforts ensure that age-old traditions can flourish in a competitive environment while safeguarding traditional arts and knowledge.