Art in the Forefront of Indian Culture
Art holds a pivotal place in Indian culture, symbolizing our profound global heritage. As a keystone in India’s initiatives for artisans, PM Modi unveiled the PM Vishwakarma scheme on 15th August 2023. This declaration became the precursor to further eminent announcements, epitomizing a commitment to “Incredible India”. The scheme embodies a transformative approach in the MSME sector, acknowledging and bolstering the tenacity of notable artists.
PM Vishwakarma: Championing the Spirit of Indian Artisans
Before delving into the intricacies of the scheme, it’s pivotal to understand the statistics, underscoring the dire need for such an initiative. Official records peg the number of artisans in India at 7 million, those who run recognized small businesses and shops. However, unofficial sources suggest the number could skyrocket to an astounding 200 million.
Despite their skills, many weavers and artisans find themselves undercompensated or even uncompensated, as a sizable chunk of society overlooks the dedication, expertise, and nuance underpinning each creation.
Market Dynamics and Challenges
On average, numerous artisans earn a paltry sum of 2 lakh rupees annually, a figure that often excludes decent commissions from sales. The relentless tide of industrialization and machine-crafted products has overshadowed the art and craft industry, confining handcrafted items to a niche, often reserved for the elite.
A New Dawn for Craftsmanship with PM Vishwakarma
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is on a mission to allocate a substantial relief fund for India’s artisans. Key stakeholders, encompassing senior officials from State governments, Public Sectors, and State Banks, have been summoned to deliberate on this commendable scheme.
Major Announcements and Impact
On the memorable day of 15th August 2023, as the nation stood transfixed by the fluttering tricolor, the anthem resonating with pride, Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, announced the PM Vishwakarma initiative.
Aims and Objectives of PM Vishwakarma Scheme
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Recognition and Support: Enlisted artisans will be endowed with a PM Vishwakarma certificate and identity card. Furthermore, they will be eligible for financial support of 1 Lakh rupees at a 5% interest rate.
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Skill Development and Empowerment: The scheme dedicates a munificent budget ranging between ₹13,000 crore and ₹15,000 crore over the span of five years, from 2023-2024 to 2027-2028.
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Scope and Coverage: The vision encompasses support for 18 traditional vocations, spread across both urban and rural landscapes.
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Registration and Implementation: Artisans can enroll in the Vishwakarma Yojana at local service hubs in villages or through any designated service providers.
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Integration with Value Chains: A prime objective is to bring unsung artists of India into the limelight, ensuring they receive apt funding and robust encouragement.