The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a Central Government scheme created to support traditional artisans and craftspeople who depend on their hands, traditional skills and tools for their livelihood. The scheme was launched on 17 September 2023 by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). It aims to strengthen traditional occupations by providing recognition, training, modern tools, affordable credit and marketing support. The scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹13,000 crore for its implementation period.
The scheme covers 18 traditional trades. These include carpenter, boat maker, armourer, blacksmith, hammer and tool kit maker, locksmith, goldsmith, potter, sculptor and stone worker, cobbler or footwear artisan, mason, basket/mat/broom maker, traditional toy maker, barber, garland maker, washerman, tailor and fishing-net maker.
Recognition and Identity Card
One of the first benefits available to an eligible artisan is official recognition as a Vishwakarma. After the required verification process, beneficiaries can receive a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and Identity Card. This recognition can help artisans access the different benefits provided under the scheme. Registration is carried out through the official system with Aadhaar-based authentication and biometric verification through Common Service Centres (CSCs).
Training and Toolkit Support
Skill development is another major part of the scheme. Beneficiaries can receive basic and advanced training to improve their traditional skills and learn about modern methods and tools. During training, eligible artisans receive a ₹500-per-day stipend.
The government also provides a toolkit incentive of up to ₹15,000 through an e-voucher. This assistance is intended to help artisans purchase better tools and improve the quality and productivity of their work.
Loan Support
PM Vishwakarma also offers collateral-free enterprise development loans to eligible artisans. The first loan tranche can be up to ₹1 lakh, while a second tranche can provide up to ₹2 lakh, subject to the applicable conditions. The scheme provides interest support, with the beneficiary interest rate set at 5% under the scheme guidelines.
The credit facility can help artisans purchase raw materials, upgrade equipment, improve their workplace or expand their small businesses. In July 2026, a PM Vishwakarma Loan Utsav was also organised in Amravati to improve access to institutional credit for traditional artisans.
Digital and Marketing Benefits
The scheme encourages artisans to adopt digital payments. Eligible beneficiaries can receive an incentive of ₹1 per digital transaction, subject to the scheme’s monthly limit. This can encourage artisans to accept digital payments and reach more customers.
Marketing support is another important feature. Artisans can receive assistance with branding, quality certification, exhibitions, trade fairs and market linkages. Government-supported events such as PM Vishwakarma Haat provide artisans with opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade products.
Overall Importance
PM Vishwakarma Yojana is therefore not simply a financial assistance programme. It is designed to provide an integrated support system—from recognition and skill training to tools, affordable loans, digital payments and marketing. The ultimate goal is to help traditional artisans modernise their businesses while preserving India’s traditional crafts and improving their earning opportunities.
Anyone interested in applying should verify their eligibility and registration process through the official PM Vishwakarma portal, rather than relying only on third-party websites.
