J&K emerges as pioneer: Launches PM Vishwakarma Yojana to empower craftsmen

In a historic stride towards uplifting the artisan community, fostering competence, and promoting self-employment, Jammu and Kashmir has achieved the distinction of being the first Union Territory in the country to inaugurate the prestigious PM Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY). The launch ceremony took place virtually from the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Shopian.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, who inaugurated the Yojana alongside Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The inaugural batch of 30 trainees (Viswakarmas) specializing in Darzi Craft commenced their training at ITI Shopian.

Joint Secretary, MSDE, Sonal Mishra; Commissioner Secretary, SDD, J&K, Saurabh Bhagat; Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Faz Lul Haseeb; Director SDD, J&K, Principals, Superintendents, Instructors of Government ITIs, craftsmen, and a substantial local audience were also present during this groundbreaking event.

Advisor Bhatnagar expressed his pride in Jammu and Kashmir becoming the first UT to initiate this program, emphasizing PMVY’s pivotal role in providing training tools, certifications, marketing support, and soft loans to empower local craftsmen. He stressed the scheme’s commitment to recognizing and empowering the artisans contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.

Highlighting the present administration’s dedication to cultivating a skill-oriented environment for maximum youth employment, Advisor Bhatnagar commended the efforts of SDD and ITI Shopian in implementing the program. He encouraged craftsmen to seize the opportunity and become catalysts for positive change in Jammu and Kashmir.

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana will soon be implemented across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Secretary MSDE outlined the scheme’s basic objectives, while Commissioner Secretary, SDD, and Deputy Commissioner Shopian also addressed the gathering.

During the event, trainees from the first batch expressed gratitude for the opportunity and pledged to dedicate themselves to acquiring skills that would not only benefit their individual careers but also contribute to the overall development of the region.

PMVY, launched in September 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is an ambitious initiative aimed at recognizing artisans and craftspeople through the PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card. The scheme offers basic training of five to seven days and advanced training of 15 days or more, with a stipend of Rs. 500 per day. Trained Vishwakarmas will receive a modern toolkit worth Rs. 15,000, along with access to credit-based soft loans and marketing support to expand their businesses.