Modi Vishwakarma Yojana: Government Offers ₹3 Lakh Support to Start Your Business – Apply Now!
In a major step to empower traditional artisans and craftsmen across the country, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana (PM Vishwakarma Yojana) on September 17, 2023. Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this scheme offers skill training, modern tools, financial assistance, and market support to individuals involved in 18 traditional occupations. The goal is to boost self-employment and improve livelihoods for millions of skilled workers.
Let’s explore the key features, eligibility, benefits, and application process of this transformative scheme.
What is the PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is designed to uplift India’s skilled traditional workforce by providing them with the tools and support they need to become self-reliant. From carpenters and potters to tailors and blacksmiths, the scheme aims to strengthen 18 identified trades with access to training, affordable credit, digital empowerment, and marketing opportunities.
Key Features of the Scheme
1. Skill Training
Artisans will undergo basic and advanced training programs to upgrade their skills:
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Basic Training: 5–7 days (40 hours)
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Advanced Training: 15 days (120 hours)
Participants receive a ₹500 daily stipend during training.
2. Toolkits Worth ₹15,000
After completing the basic training, beneficiaries receive an e-voucher of ₹15,000 to purchase modern tools and equipment for their trade.
3. Collateral-Free Business Loans
Financial support is a major component of the scheme. Artisans can get loans in two phases:
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Phase 1: ₹1 lakh (repayable in 18 months)
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Phase 2: ₹2 lakh (repayable in 30 months)
These loans are provided at a concessional interest rate of 5%, with the government covering an 8% interest subsidy.
4. Digital Empowerment
To encourage digital payments, artisans are incentivized with ₹1 per transaction, up to 100 transactions per month.
5. Market Linkage & Branding Support
Beneficiaries also get support for:
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Quality certification
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Branding and promotion
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Listing on e-commerce platforms
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Advertising and marketing
Who Can Apply?
The scheme covers individuals engaged in the following 18 traditional occupations:
Carpenter, Boat Maker, Blacksmith, Goldsmith, Potter, Sculptor, Mason, Basket Weaver, Tailor, Toy Maker, Barber, Washerman, Cobbler, Garland Maker, Fisherman, Stone Breaker, Oil Presser, and Tanner.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, the applicant must:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Be currently practicing one of the 18 eligible trades
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Not have taken a loan under similar government schemes in the last 5 years
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Only one member per family can avail of the scheme
How to Apply
Interested individuals can register through their nearest Common Service Center (CSC).
Documents Required:
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Aadhaar Card
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Mobile Number
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Bank Account Details
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Ration Car
Verification Process:
Applications go through a three-step verification:
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Village Panchayat or Urban Local Body
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District Executive Committee
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Transparency Committee for final approval
Benefits at a Glance
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Skill development and training
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Free toolkits
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Loans up to ₹3 lakh at just 5% interest
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Digital transaction rewards
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Branding and e-commerce support
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Enhanced income and business growth
Scheme Impact and Budget
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Total Budget: ₹13,000 crore
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Duration: 5 years (2023–2028)
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Target: 30 lakh artisans and families across India
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Current Status: Training programs and loan disbursement have already started in several states
Where to Get More Information?
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Visit the official portal: pmvishwakarma.gov.in
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Or, approach your nearest CSC center
Conclusion
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is not just a financial assistance program—it’s a mission to preserve India’s traditional skills while empowering artisans with modern tools and digital access. If you or someone in your family practices any of the 18 traditional trades, this is a golden opportunity to grow your business, increase income, and achieve self-reliance with full support from the Government of India.