The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at empowering traditional artisans and craftsmen who work with their hands and tools. The scheme provides skill training, financial support, modern tools, and market access to help artisans strengthen their livelihoods and become self-reliant.
This scheme focuses on preserving India’s rich traditional skills while integrating them with modern systems, digital payments, and organized markets.
What Is the PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
Launched on 17 September 2023, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme implemented for an initial period of five years (2023–24 to 2027–28). It is administered by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME).
The scheme is designed specifically for artisans and craftspeople engaged in family-based traditional occupations in the unorganised sector. It aims to provide them with formal recognition, skill upgradation, financial assistance, and marketing support.
Objective of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The main objectives of the scheme include:
- Providing official recognition to traditional artisans
- Enhancing skill levels through structured training
- Offering affordable, collateral-free credit
- Encouraging digital transactions
- Improving access to modern tools and markets
- Increasing income and employment opportunities
PM Vishwakarma Scheme Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme |
| Launch Date | 17 September 2023 |
| Implementing Ministry | Ministry of MSME |
| Duration | 2023–24 to 2027–28 |
| Target Group | Traditional artisans & craftsmen |
| Loan Amount | Up to ₹3 lakh |
| Interest Rate | 5% |
| Application Mode | Through CSC |
| Official Website | pmvishwakarma.gov.in |
PM Vishwakarma Scheme Interest Rate
Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, beneficiaries receive collateral-free enterprise development loans in two phases:
| Loan Amount | Tenure |
|---|---|
| ₹1 lakh | 18 months |
| ₹2 lakh | 30 months |
The loans are provided at a concessional interest rate of 5%, while the remaining interest is subsidised by the Government of India (interest subvention of 8%).
The first loan is available after completion of Basic Training, and the second loan is provided only after proper utilisation of the first loan, timely repayments, and adoption of digital transactions.
Key Features of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
- Formal recognition through PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card
- Skill development through basic and advanced training programs
- Daily stipend during training
- Toolkit support through e-vouchers
- Affordable credit support without collateral
- Incentives for digital transactions
- Marketing and branding support
Benefits of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The scheme offers multiple benefits to artisans and craftsmen:
1. Recognition
Beneficiaries receive an official PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card, helping them gain formal identity and access to benefits.
2. Skill Training
- Basic Training: 5–7 days
- Advanced Training: 15+ days
- Stipend: ₹500 per day during training
3. Toolkit Assistance
An e-voucher worth up to ₹15,000 is provided at the beginning of basic training to purchase modern tools.
4. Credit Support
Collateral-free loans of up to ₹3 lakh at a low interest rate of 5%.
5. Digital Transaction Incentive
₹1 per digital transaction, up to 100 transactions per month, for encouraging digital payments.
6. Marketing Support
Assistance with branding, quality certification, advertising, and onboarding on e-commerce platforms like GeM.
Eligibility Criteria for PM Vishwakarma Scheme
To apply for the scheme, the applicant must meet the following conditions:
- Must be engaged in self-employment in the unorganised sector
- Must work with hands and traditional tools
- Must be engaged in one of the notified traditional trades
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be actively practicing the trade at the time of registration
- Must not have availed benefits of PMEGP, PM Mudra, or PM SVANidhi in the last 5 years
- Only one member per family can apply
- Government employees and their immediate family members are not eligible
Trades Covered Under PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The scheme covers 18 traditional trades, including:
- Carpenter
- Boat Maker
- Blacksmith
- Goldsmith
- Potter
- Sculptor / Stone Carver
- Cobbler / Footwear Artisan
- Mason
- Basket and Broom Maker
- Doll and Toy Maker
- Barber
- Garland Maker
- Washerman
- Tailor
Documents Required for PM Vishwakarma Scheme
Applicants need the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Mobile Number
- Bank Account Details
- Ration Card
- Aadhaar of family members (if ration card is not available)
- Bank account opening details (if account does not exist)
How to Apply for PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The application process is carried out through Common Service Centres (CSC):
- Visit the nearest CSC
- CSC operator logs in to the PM Vishwakarma portal
- Complete mobile verification and Aadhaar-based eKYC
- Fill and submit the Artisan Registration Form
- Register on the Udyam Assist Platform as an MSME
- After verification, download PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID
- Apply for loans, training, and other benefits
The application goes through verification at the Gram Panchayat/ULB, District Committee, and Screening Committee levels.
How to Check PM Vishwakarma Application Status
Applicants can log in to the PM Vishwakarma portal using their registered details to track application status. Once approved, the Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card can be downloaded from the portal.
Final Thoughts
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a transformative step towards supporting India’s traditional artisans by combining skill development, financial assistance, and market access. It not only preserves cultural heritage but also strengthens micro-enterprises and promotes employment generation.
As the scheme expands, it is expected to play a vital role in improving income levels and ensuring long-term sustainability for artisans across the country.