Central Government has rolled out the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY) - a flagship welfare and skill-development scheme that provides training, financial assistance, and low-interest business loans to individuals engaged in ancestral and handmade trades.
The scheme, officially announced during the Union Budget 2023, is designed to bring the country's skilled workforce - carpenters, blacksmiths, potters, weavers, goldsmiths, cobblers, and many others - under a structured and financially inclusive system.
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana recognizes India's traditional artisans as "Vishwakarmas" - the creators and innovators who have kept the nation's crafts alive for centuries.
Under this scheme, eligible artisans receive:
Skill training with daily stipend
Toolkits worth ₹15,000
Collateral-free loans up to ₹3 lakh
Marketing and branding support for their handmade products
The goal is to modernize traditional crafts, connect artisans to new markets, and ensure their products compete in both domestic and international platforms.
The primary objective is to enhance the livelihood and social recognition of artisans and craftsmen through:
Skill upgradation and exposure to modern tools and technology.
Financial assistance through easy and affordable credit.
Digital onboarding through Aadhaar-linked verification.
Creating brand visibility and access to e-commerce and export platforms.
Preserving India's traditional art and crafts through structured training programs.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Loan Amount | ₹3,00,000 (in two instalments) |
| First Instalment | ₹1,00,000 |
| Second Instalment | ₹2,00,000 |
| Interest Rate | 5% per annum |
| Subsidy | Interest subsidy provided by Central Government |
| Toolkit Assistance | ₹15,000 credited to beneficiary's account |
| Training Allowance | ₹500 per day during training |
| Recognition ID | PM Vishwakarma Certificate & Digital ID Card |
To avail benefits under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Must be a citizen of India.
Age must be 18 years or above.
Should be engaged in a traditional trade or craft.
Must not be an income taxpayer or availing benefits from similar Central Government schemes.
Must belong to Vishwakarma community or recognized artisan categories (over 140 traditional trades are eligible).
Examples of eligible trades:
Carpenter (Suthar)
Blacksmith (Lohar)
Potter (Kumhar)
Weaver (Bunkar)
Tailor
Barber
Goldsmith (Sunar)
Cobbler (Mochi)
Tool maker, Sculptor, Washerman, Basket maker, Toy maker, etc.
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:
Aadhaar Card
PAN Card
Caste Certificate (if applicable)
Address Proof (Voter ID / Ration Card / Electricity Bill)
Bank Account Details (Passbook copy)
Passport-size Photograph
Mobile Number and Email ID
Proof of trade or craft experience (optional but helpful)
Follow these steps to apply online:
Step 1: Visit the official PM Vishwakarma Yojana portal - https://pmvishwakarma.gov.in Step 2: Click on "Login / Register" on the homepage. Step 3: Create a new user account by entering your Aadhaar number and mobile number for OTP verification. Step 4: Fill in the online application form, providing personal, occupational, and financial details. Step 5: Upload all required documents in the prescribed format. Step 6: Review your form carefully and click "Submit". Step 7: Download your PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card once approved.
Applicants who are not familiar with online systems can also apply offline through:
Common Service Centres (CSCs) located in every district and block.
Carry photocopies of required documents.
CSC operators will help you fill and verify the registration form.
Once approved, you'll receive your PM Vishwakarma ID card and certificate.
Skill Training: Free skill development courses with ₹500 daily stipend.
Toolkit Grant: ₹15,000 provided for purchasing new or upgraded tools.
Collateral-Free Loans: Up to ₹3 lakh loan in two phases at just 5% interest.
Digital Recognition: Unique PM Vishwakarma ID Card and Certificate for verified artisans.
Market Access: Support for branding, packaging, and online sales via e-commerce.
National & Global Exposure: Opportunities to showcase crafts in trade fairs and exhibitions.
Social Upliftment: Financial independence and recognition for the artisan community.
The scheme is being jointly implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Department of Financial Services (DFS) in collaboration with SIDBI and National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).
The government aims to benefit over 30 lakh artisans and craftsmen across India in the next five years, creating new employment opportunities in both rural and urban areas.
India's artisan sector employs nearly 200 million people and contributes to the nation's cultural and economic heritage. However, many craftsmen struggle with access to capital, modern tools, and marketing exposure.
PM Vishwakarma Yojana directly addresses these gaps - ensuring the country's skilled workers are not left behind in the digital and industrial transformation.
Official Website: www.pmvishwakarma.gov.in
Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-267-7777
Email: support@pmvishwakarma.gov.in
Implementing Ministry: Ministry of MSME, Government of India
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana is not just a financial scheme - it's a nation-building initiative that acknowledges the contribution of traditional artisans who form the backbone of India's cultural economy. By blending heritage crafts with modern finance and technology, the government aims to build a self-reliant and prosperous Vishwakarma Bharat.