Capacity Building of Artisans For Hnahthial District– Awareness Programme on PM Vishwakarma Scheme

Hnahthial Post | January 19, 2025, Hnahthial: A District Level Awareness Programme for the PM Vishwakarma Scheme was held today at Hnahthial DC Conference Hall. Along with the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, awareness sessions were also conducted on various schemes under MSME. The Deputy Commissioner, Smt. K. Vanlalruati, attended the programme as the chief guest emphasizing the importance of such schemes for a state like Mizoram, where industries of all scales are few and far between.

The Deputy Commissioner gave a highlight of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme stating that the Government of India had already allocated ₹13,000 crores for its implementation. She further explained that the scheme was designed to support skilled artisans and craftspeople who wish to use their traditional skills for production and self-employment but are unable to do so due to lack of capital or guidance. Under this scheme, beneficiaries will receive not only financial assistance but also support in various forms. She added that opportunities for registration under the scheme would continue to be made available, making it a good opportunity for interested persons.

“The success or failure of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme depends largely on the participation and commitment of the Vishwakarmas,” she added, urging them to make sincere efforts highlighting its importance, not only for livelihood generation but also for the preservation and promotion of Mizo traditional crafts and heritage. She also stressed on the importance of the quality of products produced imploring the Vishwakarmas to create reliable, durable and quality crafts.

Shri H.B. Lalremmawia, District Commerce & Industries Officer, mentioned in brief, features of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme as well as various schemes under the Commerce & Industries Department stating that one of the main objectives of these schemes is to turn the unorganized sector into an organized sector. He then goes on to mention a few of the major development initiatives in Hnahthial District citing projects like Cluster Development as well as the creation of Handloom & Handicraft Training Centre which is under way.

He also urged participants to gain a clear understanding of the various schemes under the Commerce & Industries Department and to ensure UDYAM registration pointing out the many marketing avenues one can have across different states through it; urging the citizens of Hnahthial District to step out and explore in the name of progress and development.

Shri Samrat M. Jha, Assistant Director Grade-I, in-charge of Br. MSME, DFO-Aizawl delivered a brief welcome address during which he led a short symbolic candle lighting ceremony, encouraging the Vishwakarmas present to be a leading light in India’s journey toward self-reliance.

Shri R. Lalmalsawma, Lead District Manager, Lunglei District, as well as Smt. Vanlalmawii, Executive Manager, Indian Postal Bank, Serchhip District, explained aspects related to loans and other financial components of the scheme and Dr. C. Hmingsangzuala, Assistant Professor, GHC, delivered a presentation on Digital Marketing, Digital Literacy, and E-commerce.

The awareness programme was coordinated by Shri Lalthakima, Young Professional, Br. MSME, and was attended by 83 Vishwakarmas.

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is implemented under the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), and the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance. In Mizoram, it is administered by the Commerce & Industries Department. Under this scheme, one person per family from a non-government-employed household, aged 18 years and above, possessing skills in any of the 18 traditional trades identified by the Government of India, is eligible to register. The scheme is a Central Sector Scheme, under which loans of up to ₹3 lakh can be availed at a subsidized interest rate.