PM Vishwakarma Yojana: Eligibility, Loan, Toolkit, and Registration
Introduction
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a flagship scheme launched by the Government of India to support and promote traditional artisans and craftsmen in the country. The scheme was officially launched on 17th September 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti.
This scheme aims to recognize the contribution of traditional artisans in nation-building and to provide them with the financial support, training, modern tools, and market access they need to grow in today’s competitive world.
Let’s understand in detail what PM Vishwakarma Yojana is, who can benefit from it, and how it works.
What is PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
PM Vishwakarma is a Central Government Scheme under the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME). It is specially designed for people engaged in family-based traditional trades, such as carpenters, blacksmiths, masons, goldsmiths, potters, and similar professions.
The aim is to uplift these artisans by giving them financial assistance, skill training, and access to modern tools, which will help them improve their income and quality of life.
Objective of the Scheme
The main objectives of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana are:
- To support traditional artisans who use hand tools and skills passed down through generations.
- To preserve India’s cultural heritage by empowering the Vishwakarma community.
- To increase productivity and income levels of these artisans through proper training and support.
- To create self-employment opportunities and reduce dependence on others.
- To integrate these artisans into the MSME ecosystem for wider reach and growth.
Who are Vishwakarmas?
“Vishwakarma” is considered the divine architect in Hindu mythology. People who work with their hands in traditional trades and crafts—like carpenters, blacksmiths, sculptors, potters, and artisans—are believed to be descendants of Lord Vishwakarma.
These people are the backbone of India’s rural and small-town economy, and they play a major role in keeping our cultural and craft traditions alive.
List of Eligible Trades Under PM Vishwakarma
As per the official scheme, 18 traditional trades are covered under this scheme. These include:
- Carpenter (Suthar)
- Boat Maker
- Armourer
- Blacksmith (Lohar)
- Hammer and Tool Kit Maker
- Locksmith
- Goldsmith (Sonar)
- Potter (Kumhaar)
- Sculptor (Moortikar, Stone Carver)
- Stone Breaker
- Cobbler (Charmkar) / Footwear Artisan
- Mason (Rajmistri)
- Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver
- Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional)
- Barber (Naai)
- Garland Maker (Malakaar)
- Washerman (Dhobi)
- Tailor (Darzi)
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria
To benefit from PM Vishwakarma Yojana, applicants must fulfill the following conditions:
- Must be engaged in a traditional craft/trade listed above.
- Must be working with hands and tools, not in large-scale industries.
- Age should be 18 years or above.
- Must be self-employed, not working in a registered business or firm.
- Should not have availed similar benefits under other central schemes.
- Only one family member is allowed to register under this scheme.
- Aadhaar-linked bank account is required.
Key Features of PM Vishwakarma Yojana
Here are the major features of the scheme:
1. Recognition through PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card
Artisans will get a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and a unique ID card for official recognition. This helps them get linked to banks and government departments.
2. Skill Upgradation
- Free basic and advanced training of 5–15 days.
- A stipend of ₹500 per day during the training period.
3. Toolkit Incentive
- A free modern toolkit worth ₹15,000 will be given to every registered artisan to improve their efficiency and productivity.
4. Credit Support (Loan Facility)
- Loan up to ₹1 lakh in the first phase at just 5% interest rate.
- After successful repayment, another ₹2 lakh loan can be provided.
- No need for collateral.
5. Marketing Support
- Help with branding, packaging, and promotion of products.
- Participation in exhibitions, fairs, and online selling platforms.
6. Digital Empowerment
- Training in digital transactions, online marketing, and financial literacy will be provided.
- Linkage to e-commerce platforms like GeM (Government e-Marketplace).
Budget Allocation
The total outlay of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana is around ₹13,000 crore for a five-year period from 2023 to 2028. This shows the government’s strong commitment towards the upliftment of artisans.
How to Apply for PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
Here is the step-by-step process to apply:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the official website –
👉 https://pmvishwakarma.gov.in
Step 2: Registration
Click on “Apply” or “Register as a Vishwakarma.” You will need to log in using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
Step 3: Fill Application Form
Provide personal details, trade details, bank account, Aadhaar number, and upload documents.
Step 4: Verification
Your application will be verified by local authorities or Gram Panchayat/ULB.
Step 5: Approval and Benefits
Once verified and approved, you will receive:
- Certificate & ID Card
- Training schedule
- Toolkit and loan assistance
Documents Required
You will need the following documents:
- Aadhaar card
- PAN card
- Passport size photograph
- Bank passbook
- Mobile number
- Proof of traditional trade (if any)
- Domicile or local resident proof
Benefits to the Country
- Preservation of ancient skills and crafts
- Rural employment generation
- Support to Atmanirbhar Bharat mission
- Boost to MSME and local economy
- Inclusion of artisans in formal economy
Challenges and Concerns
While the scheme is well-planned, there may be some challenges:
- Lack of awareness among rural artisans
- Difficulty in online registration for illiterate applicants
- Delay in verification and disbursement
- Need for continuous support and follow-up
To tackle this, the government is working through CSC (Common Service Centres) and local Gram Panchayats to ensure ground-level implementation.
Success Stories So Far
Since its launch, thousands of artisans across states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha have already registered and received benefits under the scheme.
Stories of potters getting modern wheels, goldsmiths receiving toolkits, and carpenters expanding their work with low-interest loans are motivating others to join the scheme.
Conclusion
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a major step towards recognizing and empowering India’s traditional artisans and craftspeople. By providing them with training, finance, tools, and market access, the scheme is helping them become self-reliant, skilled, and successful entrepreneurs.
If you or someone you know is involved in traditional crafts or hand-based trades, do not miss the opportunity. Register today and become a proud Vishwakarma beneficiary!
FAQs on PM Vishwakarma Yojana
Q1. Is there any fee to apply for PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
No, the registration is completely free of cost.
Q2. Can women apply under this scheme?
Yes, the scheme is open for all genders working in eligible trades.
Q3. Is Aadhaar mandatory?
Yes, Aadhaar linked with a mobile number is mandatory for registration.
Q4. Can I apply offline?
Yes, you can also apply through Common Service Centres (CSCs).
Q5. Can I get a second loan if I repay the first?
Yes, after timely repayment of the first loan, you can apply for a second loan of ₹2 lakh.