India’s rich cultural tapestry is woven with the threads of traditional craftsmanship. From the intricate designs of a goldsmith to the sturdy creations of a carpenter, and the vibrant artistry of a potter, these skills form the bedrock of countless rural and urban livelihoods. The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched by the Government of India under the Ministry of MSME, is a targeted initiative to uplift these invaluable traditional artisans and craftspeople. Named reverently after Lord Vishwakarma—the divine architect—this scheme profoundly recognizes the invaluable contribution of artisans from OBC, SC, ST, and other communities by providing comprehensive financial assistance, modern skill training, formal certification, and advanced tools.

This blog explores how the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, active through 2027-28 with an outlay of ₹13,000 crore, offers a golden opportunity for carpenters, blacksmiths, potters, goldsmiths, cobblers, and many more to transform their traditional skills into sustainable, modern livelihoods and contribute to India’s economic growth.

Table of Contents

• What is PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
• Key Objectives of the Scheme
• Comprehensive List of Eligible Trades
• Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
• Extensive Benefits of the Scheme
• Detailed Financial Assistance Structure
• Step-by-Step Application Process (2025)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• FAQs
• How Sigma Solutions Can Help
• Conclusion

What is PM Vishwakarma Yojana?

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana, officially launched on September 17, 2023 (Vishwakarma Day), is a Central Sector Scheme fully funded by the Government of India. Its core mission is to provide holistic, end-to-end support, recognition, and financial inclusion to traditional artisans and craftspeople across India. This comprehensive support includes:

• Formal certification and ID card: Granting official recognition to ‘Vishwakarmas’.
• Toolkit incentive: Financial aid for purchasing modern, efficient tools.
• Skill training: Both basic and advanced programs to enhance traditional skills with modern techniques.
• Credit support: Collateral-free loans at concessional interest rates.
• Digital empowerment: Facilitating digital transactions and e-commerce onboarding.
• Marketing assistance: Support for quality certification, branding, and market linkages.

The scheme covers over 18 trades that are deeply rooted in India’s traditional economy and local livelihoods, acknowledging their critical role in preserving cultural heritage and driving grassroots economic activity. The scheme is set to benefit an estimated 30 lakh families over its five-year tenure (FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28).

Key Objectives of the Scheme

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is driven by several strategic objectives, aiming for a significant socio-economic upliftment of the artisan community:

• Recognize and Formalize Artisans: To formally recognize traditional artisans and craftspeople as ‘Vishwakarmas’ through a certificate and ID card, integrating them into the formal MSME ecosystem.
• Enhance Earnings through Upskilling and Credit Access: To improve the quality, scale, and reach of artisans’ products and services by providing relevant skill upgradation and easy access to collateral-free credit at a concessional interest rate.
• Preserve Traditional Trades and Craft-based Knowledge: To safeguard and promote India’s rich artisanal heritage by empowering generations of craftspeople to continue their trades with renewed vigor and modern support.
• Facilitate Digital Onboarding and E-commerce Enablement: To encourage digital transactions and help artisans onboard onto e-commerce platforms (like GeM, ONDC, Khadi India) to expand their market reach.
• Provide Modern Tools and Infrastructure: To support the transition from traditional, less efficient tools to modern, improved equipment, thereby enhancing productivity and product quality.
• Strengthen Value Chains: To establish stronger linkages for artisans within domestic and global value chains through marketing and branding support.

Comprehensive List of Eligible Trades

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana initially covers 18 traditional trades, carefully selected to represent a wide spectrum of India’s artisanal heritage:

1. Carpenter (Suthar/Badhai)
2. Boat Maker
3. Armourer
4. Blacksmith (Lohar)
5. Hammer and Tool Kit Maker
6. Locksmith
7. Goldsmith (Sunar)
8. Potter (Kumhar)
9. Sculptor/Stone Carver/Stone Breaker
10. Cobbler/Shoemaker/Footwear Artisan
11. Mason (Rajmistri)
12. Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver
13. Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional)
14. Barber (Naai)
15. Garland Maker (Malakaar)
16. Washerman (Dhobi)
17. Tailor (Darzi)
18. Fishing Net Maker

Note: The list of eligible trades can be updated and modified by the National Steering Committee with the approval of the Ministry for MSME.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be eligible for the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Trade Engagement: Must be a traditional artisan or craftsperson engaged in one of the 18 listed trades, working with hands and tools in the unorganized sector on a self-employment basis.
• Age: The applicant’s minimum age must be 18 years or above at the time of registration.
• Employment Status: Should not be employed in formal government service (neither central nor state government).
• Previous Scheme Availment: The applicant should not have availed loans under similar central or state government schemes for self-employment/business development (like PMEGP, MUDRA, PM SVANidhi) in the past five years. However, those who have fully repaid such loans are eligible.
• Family Unit: Only one member from a family (defined as husband, wife, and their unmarried children) can benefit under the scheme.
• Aadhaar and Mobile Linkage: Must possess a valid Aadhaar number and a mobile number linked to Aadhaar for e-KYC and verification.
• Active in Trade: Must be actively working in the respective trade at the time of registration.

Extensive Benefits of the Scheme

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana offers a comprehensive package of benefits designed to empower artisans at every step of their journey:

1. Recognition:
   • Beneficiaries receive a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and a unique ID Card, formally recognizing them as ‘Vishwakarmas’. This also onboards them onto the Udyam Assist Platform within the formal MSME ecosystem.
2. Toolkit Incentive:
   • A financial incentive of ₹15,000 is provided, typically as e-vouchers, to enable artisans to purchase modern and improved tools at the commencement of their basic skill training.
3. Skill Upgradation Training:
   • Basic Training: 5-7 days (40 hours) of skill enhancement, covering modern tool usage, basic business management, and digital transactions.
   • Advanced Training: An optional 15 days (120 hours) or more of advanced training, focusing on specialized techniques, entrepreneurship, and modern technology.
   • Stipend: A stipend of ₹500 per day is provided to artisans during both basic and advanced training sessions as wage compensation, along with travel expenses of ₹1,000 (as per recent updates).
4. Credit Support (Collateral-free Enterprise Development Loans):
   • 1st Tranche: A collateral-free loan of ₹1 lakh with a repayment tenure of 18 months, available upon completion of basic training.
   • 2nd Tranche: A subsequent collateral-free loan of ₹2 lakh with a repayment tenure of 30 months, available after successful repayment of the first tranche, maintenance of a standard loan account, and adoption of digital transactions or completion of Advanced Training.
   • Interest Rate: Both tranches are provided at a concessional interest rate of 5% per annum. The Government of India provides an interest subvention of up to 8% to banks, making it highly affordable.
5. Digital Empowerment Incentives:
   • An incentive of Re. 1 per digital transaction (up to a maximum of 100 transactions per month) is credited directly to the artisan’s account for each digital payout or receipt, encouraging the adoption of UPI and other digital payment tools.
   • Free onboarding onto digital platforms and support for digital transactions.
6. Marketing Support:
   • Comprehensive marketing support is provided by the National Committee for Marketing (NCM). This includes assistance with quality certification, branding, advertising, publicity, and facilitating participation in domestic and international trade fairs and exhibitions (e.g., on GeM, ONDC).

Detailed Financial Assistance Structure

The scheme’s financial components are designed to provide robust and phased support:

Step-by-Step Application Process (2025)

The application process for the PM Vishwakarma Yojana is primarily facilitated through Common Service Centers (CSCs) to ensure accessibility for artisans, especially in rural areas.

1. Visit the Nearest CSC: The first step for an artisan is to visit their nearest Common Service Centre (CSC). Direct online application by individuals is not typically supported; CSCs facilitate the process.
2. Aadhaar and Mobile Verification (e-KYC): At the CSC, perform mobile verification and Aadhaar-based e-KYC. This confirms identity and links the application to the artisan’s Aadhaar.
3. Fill Artisan Registration Form: Complete the detailed artisan registration form on the official PM Vishwakarma portal (pmvishwakarma.gov.in) through the CSC operator. This includes personal details, trade details, and contact information.
4. Upload Credentials (if any): If applicable, upload any existing artisan credentials, certificates, or proof of trade practice.
5. Three-Tier Verification: The application undergoes a rigorous three-step verification process:
   • Verification at Gram Panchayat/ULB level: Local government bodies verify the artisan’s details and trade.
   • Vetting and Recommendation by District Implementation Committee (DIC): The district committee reviews and recommends the application.
   • Final Approval by Screening Committee: A higher committee provides final approval.
6. Receive PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card: Upon successful verification and approval, the artisan receives their digital PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card.
7. Enroll in Training: The artisan is then enrolled in the basic skill training program (5-7 days) at a designated training center.
8. Apply for Toolkit Incentive & Loan: After completing the basic training and skill assessment, artisans become eligible to apply for the toolkit incentive and the first tranche of the collateral-free loan.
9. Credit Disbursal: The loan amount is disbursed directly to the artisan’s bank account via partnering banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
10. Avail Further Benefits: Post successful repayment of the first loan, artisans can apply for the second tranche of the loan and opt for advanced training.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a smooth application and maximize the benefits of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, artisans should be aware of and avoid these common mistakes:

• Applying without a Valid Trade or Experience: Ensure your traditional craft is among the 18 eligible trades, and you have verifiable experience.
• Submitting Incorrect Aadhaar or Bank Details: Discrepancies in Aadhaar, bank account, or mobile number can lead to rejection or delays. Ensure all details match exactly.
• Failing to Attend the Full Training Session: Completion of basic training is mandatory for availing the toolkit incentive and the first loan tranche. Non-attendance can lead to disqualification.
• Misusing Toolkit or Loan: The toolkit incentive and loan amounts are strictly for business-related purposes. Misutilization can lead to disqualification from future benefits and legal action.
• Not Understanding Eligibility Criteria: Thoroughly review all eligibility conditions, especially those related to previous loan availment from similar schemes, to avoid application rejection.
• Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all required documents, including proof of address, identity, and trade, are complete and accurate.

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the PM Vishwakarma Yojana:

Q1. Can I choose my own training location under the scheme?
While training locations are typically assigned based on artisan clusters and designated training centers, preferences may be recorded, but final allocation depends on availability and scheme guidelines.

Q2. What happens if I fail to repay the first loan tranche?
If you fail to repay the first loan tranche within the stipulated 18 months, you will not be eligible to apply for the second tranche of the loan. Maintaining a standard loan account is crucial.

Q3. Are the toolkit incentive and certificate transferable?
No. The PM Vishwakarma Certificate, ID Card, and toolkit incentive are strictly non-transferable and are intended for the direct benefit of the registered artisan.

Q4. Is the PM Vishwakarma scheme open to women artisans?
Yes. The scheme highly encourages and actively promotes the participation of women artisans, recognizing their significant contribution to traditional crafts.

Q5. Can artisans without formal education apply for this scheme?
Yes. Formal education is not a barrier for applying under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana. The scheme is designed to support artisans based on their traditional skills and practical experience, not their academic qualifications.

Q6. What is the incentive for digital transactions?
Beneficiaries receive Re. 1 per digital transaction, up to a maximum of 100 transactions per month, directly credited to their bank accounts. This encourages cashless transactions.

Q7. What kind of marketing support is provided?
The scheme provides marketing support through quality certification, branding assistance, advertising, publicity, and facilitating onboarding on e-commerce platforms like GeM and ONDC, as well as participation in trade fairs.

How Sigma Solutions Can Help

Sigma Solutions is dedicated to empowering India’s traditional artisans and ensuring they can fully leverage the benefits of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana. Our expert guidance and comprehensive support cover every stage of your journey:

• Registration and Application Support: Assisting with accurate and complete online registration through CSCs, including Aadhaar and mobile verification.
• Selection of Eligible Trades and Documentation: Guiding artisans on selecting the correct trade and preparing all necessary documentation.
• Loan Application Drafting: Providing professional assistance in preparing detailed project proposals and loan applications for credit support.
• Training Coordination and Digital Onboarding: Facilitating enrollment in skill training programs and guiding artisans through digital payment setups and e-commerce onboarding.
• Bank Liaison and Post-Loan Support: Helping artisans liaison with partnering banks for smooth loan disbursal and providing ongoing support for repayment and compliance.

Conclusion

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana 2025 is far more than a credit scheme, it’s a profound cultural and economic revival initiative. With a substantial budget of ₹13,000 crore and a five-year implementation plan, it aims to transform the lives of millions of artisans. By preserving India’s invaluable artisan legacy and empowering grassroots craftspeople with crucial financial support, modern tools, skill enhancements, and digital integration, the scheme builds inclusive prosperity, fosters self-reliance, and ensures that India’s rich heritage continues to thrive.

If you or someone you know is a traditional artisan ready to scale their skills into a sustainable livelihood and embrace a digitally empowered future, Sigma Solutions is here to guide every step of the way, ensuring your craft receives the recognition and support it truly deserves.