In a recent episode of Akashvani's program Spotlight, the spotlight shone brightly on the PM Vishwakarma Scheme for Traditional Crafts and Artisans. Shekhar Iyer, a distinguished Political Analyst, delved into the intricacies of this visionary initiative.
India, known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage, is home to a myriad of traditional crafts and artisans. However, the rapid wave of modernization has cast a shadow over the survival of these age-old crafts and the artisans behind them. To address this challenge, the central government has unveiled the PM Vishwakarma scheme. This visionary initiative aims to provide financial support to artisans while simultaneously preserving India's ancient traditions and heritage by promoting local products, arts, and crafts.
Mr. Shekhar Iyer eloquently elaborated on the essence of the PM Vishwakarma scheme. While previous efforts have primarily focused on promoting specific crafts, this scheme has a broader vision. It seeks to empower the artisans themselves, ensuring their skills are upgraded and nurtured. Often, economic hardships discourage artisans from passing down their craft to the next generation. This scheme, however, seeks to reverse this trend.
The central tenets of the PM Vishwakarma scheme can be summed up in three key principles: Samman (respect), Samarth (skill enhancement), and Samriddhi (prosperity). The scheme encompasses 18 trades, ranging from carpentry and blacksmithing to pottery, sculpture, and traditional masonry. The goal is to encourage artisans to continue their craft by providing them with professional certificates, recognition, and financial support. Moreover, the scheme aims to bridge the gap between the artisans' earnings and the value of their labor by connecting them directly to the market.
Beyond skill enhancement, the PM Vishwakarma scheme offers financial support. Artisans participating in the training programs receive a daily stipend of ₹500. Furthermore, they are granted an identity card and a Vishwakarma certificate, serving as proof of their enhanced skills. These certificates open doors for artisans to secure loans of up to ₹1,00,000 without the need for collateral. They are also given ₹15,000 in vouchers to purchase essential tools for their craft.
In the modern market, many traditional artisans struggle due to a limited understanding of product marketing and branding. The PM Vishwakarma scheme aims to change this by facilitating the branding and packaging of traditional products. With standardized quality and professional marketing, these products can compete effectively on a global scale, ensuring that artisans receive the value their craftsmanship deserves.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is more than just a financial lifeline for traditional artisans. It is a beacon of hope that ensures India's cultural heritage remains vibrant. By offering respect, skill enhancement, and prosperity to artisans, the scheme paves the way for generations to come, reinforcing India's commitment to preserving its invaluable traditions.
Listen to the full discussion at:
https://www.youtube.com/live/1yoovmeQHlY?si=c4SaQOFpAKkSb0CL
