PM Vishwakarma Yojana: Artisans get loans up to ₹3 lakh; learn how to apply for the scheme.

Government Initiative Empowering Skilled Artisans with Loans Up to ₹3 Lakh — Check Who Can Apply

The Central Government has launched an ambitious initiative called the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at empowering India’s traditional artisans and craftsmen. The scheme seeks to strengthen the country’s skilled workforce by helping local artisans upgrade their craft, access modern technology, and become self-reliant entrepreneurs.

Under this flagship program, the government offers training, financial support, and subsidized loans to individuals engaged in traditional trades. With interest rates much lower than regular market loans, the scheme has emerged as a lifeline for lakhs of small artisans across India.

What Is PM Vishwakarma Yojana?

The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana was introduced to promote and preserve India’s centuries-old craftsmanship. It specifically targets individuals involved in traditional trades such as carpentry, pottery, blacksmithing, tailoring, goldsmithing, cobbling, and weaving.

Through this program, the government not only provides skill enhancement training but also ensures that artisans have access to modern tools and equipment. During the training period, each participant receives a daily stipend to support their living expenses.

After successfully completing training, artisans are eligible for financial assistance of up to ₹15,000 to purchase essential toolkits. This helps them restart or upgrade their work without bearing a heavy financial burden.

Loan Benefits Under the Scheme

PM Vishwakarma Yojana offers collateral-free loans in two stages:

• First Phase: A loan of up to ₹1 lakh at just 5% interest rate.

• Second Phase: Upon successful repayment of the first loan and completion of further training, artisans can avail another ₹2 lakh loan at the same subsidized rate.

In total, an eligible artisan can receive up to ₹3 lakh in assistance.

What makes the scheme stand out is its low interest rate of only 5%, compared to the usual 10–12% charged by commercial banks. This makes borrowing affordable for small craftsmen who often struggle with limited access to credit.

Who Can Benefit?

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana supports workers from 18 traditional occupations, including:

• Carpenter, goldsmith, blacksmith, potter, mason

• Cobbler, tailor, barber, basket weaver

• Handloom weaver, fisherman (net maker), locksmith

• Stone sculptor, toy or decorative artisan, boat maker, and others

The aim is to encourage these artisans to combine traditional skills with modern tools, helping them boost productivity and income. The scheme also envisions creating new local employment opportunities as small workshops evolve into sustainable micro-businesses.

How to Apply for PM Vishwakarma Yojana

To avail the benefits, eligible applicants can apply in two ways:

Online: Visit the official PM Vishwakarma Portal.

Offline: Go to the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) for assistance with registration.

Applicants must provide:

• Aadhaar Card

• Bank Passbook

• Proof of their existing trade or occupation

Once the documents are verified, the applicant’s eligibility is assessed. Qualified candidates then receive training, a toolkit grant, and access to low-interest loans under the scheme.

Empowering India’s Traditional Workforce

The vision behind PM Vishwakarma Yojana is to transform India’s vast network of skilled artisans into self-sufficient professionals. By merging ancient craftsmanship with new-age technology, the government aims to revive local industries and promote economic growth in rural and semi-urban areas.

So far, thousands of artisans across India have already benefited from the program, improving their income levels and creating employment in their communities.

With continued implementation, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana is set to become a cornerstone of India’s mission to empower skilled hands and preserve traditional artistry, ensuring that local craftsmanship continues to thrive in a modern economy.

Disclaimer: The information presented is based on official government releases and media sources. Applicants should visit the official PM Vishwakarma Portal or contact authorized CSC centers for verified eligibility details and the latest scheme updates.