Baramulla, 2, April 2025 – The District Development Commissioner of Baramulla Minga Sherpa conducted a comprehensive review of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, a central government initiative aimed at uplifting traditional artisans and craftspeople. The meeting, held at the DC office, focused on ensuring maximum participation of eligible beneficiaries and streamlining the scheme’s implementation across the district.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched in September 2023, supports artisans engaged in 18 traditional trades, including carpentry, blacksmithing, goldsmithing, and tailoring, among others. It offers benefits such as skill training, modern toolkits worth up to ₹15,000, collateral-free loans of up to ₹3 lakh at a concessional 5% interest rate, and incentives for digital transactions. The scheme aims to enhance productivity, preserve cultural heritage, and integrate artisans into the formal economy.
During the review, the DDC emphasised the importance of organizing awareness camps to educate artisans about the scheme’s benefits and registration process. “We must reach every corner of Baramulla to ensure no eligible artisan is left behind. Awareness camps are key to boosting participation and empowering our craftspeople,” the DDC stated. These camps will focus on rural and urban areas, targeting communities engaged in traditional trades to maximize enrollment.
The DDC also mandated regular monthly meetings to monitor progress and address pendency at the Panchayat and Urban Local Body (ULB) levels. This directive aims to streamline the verification process, which involves three stages: initial screening at the Gram Panchayat or ULB level, vetting by the District Implementation Committee, and final approval by the Screening Committee. Delays in verification have been a challenge, and the DDC stressed that timely action is essential to deliver benefits like training, toolkits, and loans to artisans promptly.
The meeting included discussions on the status of applications, training programs, and loan disbursements. Officers were instructed to ensure that only skilled artisans actively engaged in their trades are verified, particularly for high-enrollment trades like tailoring and masonry. The DDC also called for robust coordination between the District Industries Centre, Common Service Centres, and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth enrollment through the PM Vishwakarma portal.
With an outlay of ₹13,000 crore until 2027-28, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is designed to transform the lives of artisans by providing financial support, skill upgradation, and market linkages. In Baramulla, the administration’s proactive approach is expected to strengthen the local economy and preserve the district’s rich artisanal traditions. As the DDC concluded, “This scheme is a game-changer for our artisans. Through awareness and accountability, we will ensure its success in Baramulla.”
The district administration’s commitment to regular monitoring and outreach underscores its dedication to empowering artisans and fostering sustainable livelihoods in Jammu and Kashmir.