Daily Current Affairs : 18-September-2023
The Prime Minister of India recently unveiled a groundbreaking initiative known as the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. This scheme holds significant promise as it aims to provide financial assistance to individuals engaged in traditional crafts and skills, thereby preserving and promoting India’s rich heritage. In this essay, we will delve into the key aspects of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, including its objectives, eligibility criteria, and the benefits it offers to artisans.
Understanding the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
About the Scheme
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme was launched on the auspicious occasion of Vishwakarma Puja and is fully funded by the Union Government of India. Its primary goal is to support and uplift traditional artisans and craftsmen who contribute to the country’s cultural diversity through their skills.
Eligibility Criteria
The scheme encompasses a wide range of traditional crafts, making it accessible to a diverse group of artisans. The eligible crafts include:
- Carpenter
- Boat Maker
- Armourer
- Blacksmith
- Hammer
- Tool Kit Maker
- Locksmith
- Goldsmith
- Potter
- Sculptor
- Stone breaker
- Cobbler (Shoesmith/Footwear artisan)
- Mason (Rajmistri)
- Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver
- Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional)
- Barber
- Garland maker
- Washerman
- Tailor
- Fishing Net Maker
Registration Process
To avail the benefits of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, artisans can register through a biometric-based portal dedicated to this purpose. This streamlined registration process ensures that those who truly deserve support can access it conveniently.
Aim and Significance
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme holds immense significance for multiple reasons:
- Preservation of Traditional Skills: It aims to strengthen the age-old “Guru shishya parampara” or the family-based practice of traditional skills. This encourages artisans to pass down their expertise to the next generation, ensuring the continuity of these crafts.
- Enhancing Quality and Reach: The scheme seeks to improve the quality and expand the reach of products and services offered by artisans and craftsmen. This not only benefits the artisans but also contributes to India’s economic growth.
- Financial Stability: For individuals making a livelihood from these professions, the scheme provides much-needed financial stability. This support enables them to sustain their craft and livelihoods.
- Skill Training and Assistance: The scheme offers skill training, financial assistance through loans, incentives for digital transactions, support for the purchase of equipment, and assistance in marketing their businesses. These provisions empower artisans to modernize and thrive in a competitive market.
Benefits under the Scheme
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme offers a range of benefits to eligible artisans:
- Two-Phase Loan Provision: Artisans can access loans in two phases. In the first phase, loans up to Rs 1,00,000 are available at a low-interest rate of 5%. In the second phase, artisans can access loans up to Rs 2,00,000 with the same low-interest rate.
- Certificate and Identity Card: Participants in the scheme are provided with a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and Identity card, which can enhance their credibility and recognition in the market.
- Stipend for Skill Training: Artisans are eligible for a stipend of Rs 500 to support their skill development and training.
- Modern Tools Purchase: An amount of Rs 1500 is provided to artisans to purchase modern tools, which can enhance their efficiency and product quality.
- Toolkit Support: Toolkits are supplied to artisans to aid their knowledge and skills, facilitating their work and learning process.
Important Points:
About the PM Vishwakarma Scheme:
- Launched to provide financial assistance to traditional craftsmen.
- Fully funded by the Union Government.
- Celebrated on Vishwakarma Puja.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Covers 18 traditional crafts.
- Includes carpenters, blacksmiths, potters, tailors, and more.
- Registration through a biometric-based portal.
Aim and Significance:
- Strengthens the Guru shishya parampara.
- Improves product quality and market reach.
- Provides financial stability.
- Offers skill training, loans, digital transaction incentives, equipment purchase support, and marketing assistance.
Benefits Under the Scheme:
- Two-phase loan provision with low-interest rates.
- PM Vishwakarma Certificate and Identity card.
- Stipend for skill training.
- Financial support for purchasing modern tools.
- Toolkit provided for knowledge enhancement.
Why In News
Recently, the Prime Minister inaugurated the PM Vishwakarma scheme, aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. This initiative is expected to foster a culture of creativity and technical excellence among the youth.
MCQs about PM Vishwakarma Scheme
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What is the primary objective of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
A. To celebrate Vishwakarma Puja
B. To provide financial assistance to traditional craftsmen
C. To promote modernization in traditional crafts
D. To offer free toolkits to artisans
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How many phases of loans are provided under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, and what is the interest rate for each phase?
A. One phase with a 10% interest rate
B. Two phases with a 5% interest rate in both
C. Three phases with a 7% interest rate in each
D. No loan provision in the scheme
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What is the significance of the PM Vishwakarma Certificate and Identity card?
A. They provide free access to training programs.
B. They act as a pass for digital transactions.
C. They enhance the credibility and recognition of artisans.
D. They are required for registering on the biometric portal.
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