The Indian government has taken significant steps to support and uplift artisans and craftspeople through the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on September 17, 2023. This ambitious scheme is designed to offer comprehensive support to those working with traditional tools and techniques, encompassing a variety of benefits including recognition via PM Vishwakarma Certificates and ID Cards, skill upgradation, toolkit incentives, credit support, incentives for digital transactions, and marketing support.
The scheme has been rolled out nationwide, including in Karnataka, where it has already made a considerable impact. In Chikkaballapur district alone, the scheme has received 97,356 applications, with 17,696 successful registrations. This indicates a strong demand for support among local artisans and highlights the scheme’s potential to enhance their economic well-being.
In tandem with the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) is running the “Assistance to Training Institutions (ATI)” Scheme. This initiative provides crucial financial support to bolster the capacity of training institutions and to facilitate skill development programs. The scheme, which is driven by demand, has released the following funds over the past few years and the current year (as of July 26, 2024):
- FY 2021-22: Rs. 47.96 crore
- FY 2022-23: Rs. 21.99 crore
- FY 2023-24: Rs. 13.76 crore
- FY 2024-25 (as of July 26, 2024): Rs. 5.25 crore
These investments are aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and capabilities of institutions dedicated to skill development, which is essential for fostering entrepreneurship and improving job prospects.
Additionally, Karnataka’s Khadi industry has continued to thrive, with the total production for the fiscal year 2023-24 reaching Rs. 49,943.44 lakhs and creating employment for 27,612 individuals. Managed by non-profit registered Khadi Institutions, the Khadi programme supports the promotion of traditional fabric while providing sustainable livelihoods.
These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to nurturing traditional crafts, enhancing skill development, and supporting sustainable industries. By empowering artisans through the PM Vishwakarma Yojana and bolstering training institutions with the ATI Scheme, alongside promoting Khadi, the government aims to drive economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and provide meaningful opportunities for artisans across the country.
