Kohima, 17 September (MTNews): Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Dr Sanjeev Kumar Baliyan, has emphasized that the PM Vishwakarma scheme is not merely a government program; it is a transformative movement significantly impacting the lives of citizens. Speaking as the Chief Guest at the launch event of the “PM Vishwakarma Scheme” in Kohima on Sunday, he stated that this initiative stands as proof that when the government and citizens unite with a shared vision, there are no limits to what we can achieve.
Highlighting that this visionary scheme originates from the Prime Minister, Dr Baliyan emphasized that it underscores the unwavering commitment of the central government to empower the skilled workforce and drive India toward a brighter and more prosperous future.
Dr Baliyan urged citizens to explore the opportunities provided by the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, encouraging them to dream big, aspire for greatness, and work collectively to build a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous India.
Highlighting the scheme’s benefits, the Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying emphasized that the cornerstone of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is its commitment to enhancing the skills of the workforce. It simplifies access to credit and financial support, places strong emphasis on promoting the adoption of modern technology and digital tools, establishes robust market linkages to connect our skilled workers with both domestic and international markets, and provides access to social security schemes for our workforce.
The program was attended by Nagaland MLA and Advisor for Labour, Employment & Skill Development, Moatoshi Longkumer, Commissioner & Secretary of Industries and Commerce, Nagaland, K Kevichusa, and Director (Finance) of NEEPCO LTD, Baidyanath Maharana.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims to recognize and provide comprehensive support to traditional artisans and craftsmen who work with their hands and basic tools, with the goal of improving the quality, scale, and reach of their products and integrating them into MSME value chains.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme will be fully funded by the Union Government with an allocation of Rs 13,000 crore. Under the scheme, Vishwakarmas will be registered free of charge through Common Services Centers using a biometric-based PM Vishwakarma portal. They will receive recognition through PM Vishwakarma certificates and ID cards, skill upgradation involving basic and advanced training, a toolkit incentive of Rs 15,000, collateral-free credit support up to Rs 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs 2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5%, incentives for digital transactions, and marketing support.