PM Modi Launches PM Vishwakarma Scheme to Empower Artisans & Craftsmen

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Central Sector Scheme PM Vishwakarma in New Delhi on September 17, marking a historic milestone in the upliftment of traditional artisans and craftsmen across the nation. The scheme, with a total outlay of Rs 13,000 Crores, aims to provide comprehensive support to artisans and craftsmen, including those in the fisheries sector.

To spread awareness and engage potential beneficiaries, events were organized at approximately seventy locations across the country on the same day. Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, attended this national-level events as the Chief Guest, which was organized by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying in Mangalore, Karnataka.

The event in Mangalore saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Minister of Fisheries, Ports, and Inland Water Transport, Government of Karnataka, Mankala S. Vaidya, and MLAs Dr. Y. Bharath Shetty and D. Vedavyas Kamath.  Sudhir Shetty, Chief Executive of the National Fisheries Development Board, and Mullai Muhilan MP were also present, along with other officials.

Parshottam Rupala expressed his satisfaction in sharing the benefits of the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme with the nation. He emphasized that the scheme is set to make a significant impact on traditional artisans and craftsmen across various sectors, particularly in the fisheries sector. The scheme is expected to benefit boat makers and fish net makers, providing them with financial support.

The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme boasts a total allocation of Rs 13,000 Crores, a historic move that signifies the government's commitment to uplifting artisans and craftspeople across 18 traditional trades in its inaugural phase. Traditional artisans and craftspeople can access credit support of up to Rs 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs 2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5%, empowering them financially and helping them thrive in their respective fields.

Rupala further highlighted that this initiative is a unique opportunity for artisans and craftsmen to elevate their status and prosperity. He interacted with traditional artisans and craftsmen during the event, understanding their needs and aspirations.

MLA Mangaluru (South), D. Vedavyas Kamath, took the opportunity to address the challenges faced by the fisheries sector in Karnataka and congratulated the Government of India for the launch of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. Neetu Kumari Prasad, Joint Secretary (Fisheries), underscored the importance of traditional artisans and craftspeople, with a special mention of fish net makers and boat makers.

On August 16, 2023, the Union Cabinet of India approved the implementation of PM Vishwakarma Yojana throughout India. This scheme is designed to offer comprehensive support to traditional artisans and craftsmen, commonly known as 'Vishwakarmas,' by providing training, technology, credit, and market support.

In the fisheries sector, the potential beneficiaries of this scheme include Fishing Net Makers and Boat Makers, promising to further boost India's thriving fisheries industry.