PM Vishwakarma Scheme: The PM Vishwakarma Scheme was launched by the Government of India specifically to help artisans and traditional craftworkers. For many individuals living throughout India, traditional skills remain a primary source of income. Many artisans experience challenges such as insufficient access to contemporary tools, lack of professional educational opportunities, and insufficient financial resources.
This program aims to support artisans by providing them with training, financial assistance, access to modern equipment, and improved marketing opportunities. The program serves primarily to assist individuals who use hand tools to create goods or provide services that are considered non-perishable.
Under this scheme, several traditional trades have been included. These trades represent skills that have been passed down from one generation to another. The government has identified these professions so that the workers in these fields can receive proper support and improve their income.
Below is the list of major trades covered under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana:
1. Carpenter (Badhai)
Carpenters are skilled workers who create furniture and wooden items such as doors, windows, chairs, tables, and cupboards. They play an important role in construction and home decoration.Under the scheme, carpenters can receive training in modern woodworking techniques and may also get financial help to buy better tools and machines.
2) Boat Builders
A boat builder builds and repairs wooden boats for use in both rivers and near-shore (inlets) waters, usually having their base of operations in fishing villages or cities. Boat builders are supported by the Program through the provision of improved tools/equipment, as well as skill development, all ultimately aimed at achieving improved quality/durability in the boats they build/repair.
3) Blacksmith
A blacksmith builds metal based products for the use in agriculture (tools), for use in homes or yards (also tools), and general items. The work of a blacksmith is very important to the livelihood of farmers/agricultural workers and the needs of rural populations at large. The Program supports blacksmiths by providing them with quality modern tools and technical training to help them be more productive in their trades.
4. Hammer & Tool Maker
Craftspeople who manufacture tools in small sizes made from metal, usually for use by other workers. They support many different types of occupations. Training and advanced technology are available for craftsmen through government assistance.
5. Locksmith
Locksmiths manufacture and repair locks, key blanks, and security systems. Their work is important and very valuable to people living in both cities and towns. By participating in this program, locksmiths can continue their training while staying current on the newest, most advanced locking technologies.
6. Goldsmith (Sonar)
Goldsmiths build and fabricate beautiful artistic jewelry from fine gold and other precious metals. This is an age-old profession that requires both an incredible amount of skill through experience and a high level of artistic ability. The program will help them learn new design techniques and will allow them to receive funding to expand their businesses.
7. Potter (Kumhar)
A potter makes various ceramic products from clay (pots, kitchenware, oil lamps, and decorative gifts). Pottery is a very popular item used during festivals as well as every day. The program provides a way for potters to receive electric potter’s wheels, receive training on how to use the wheels and sell their work in larger markets.
8. Sculptor (Moortikar)
Sculptors create statues and decorative items from materials such as stone, clay, or metal. Their work is often used in temples, public places, and homes.The scheme helps sculptors improve their skills and connect with more buyers.
9. Cobbler
Cobblers create and become an expert in creating and/or repairing shoes. Small villages and towns often rely on cobblers for shoe repair. Through this programme, a cobbler may receive new tools and skill development training, to develop an enhanced craft.
10. Mason (Rajmistri)
Masons work in construction, and they create houses, walls etc. and also contribute to the many types of structures in the construction industry. The scheme provides support to develop their skills and improve safety knowledge.
11. Basket and mat maker
Basket and mat makers create many products, using bamboo, cane or grass. The products made by these craftsmen are prevalent in many homes and in markets. The government currently supports these craftsmen in improving their product design and helping them gain access to better markets.
12. Barber (Nai)
Barbers provide grooming services; these include cutting, shaving and styling of hair. Barbers have been around for hundreds of years, and have traditionally performed similar levels of services. Under the scheme, a barber can develop their modern grooming skills, and can also receive assistance in upgrading their equipment.
13. Washerman (Dhobi)
Washermen provide laundry services to households and businesses, and their services are vital in many smaller towns and rural areas. The scheme provides washermen with additional training and financial support for upgrading their business and providing increased service to their consumers.
14. Tailor (Darzi)
Tailors stitch and repair clothes for people. They play an important role in the clothing industry, especially in local communities. Under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, tailors can receive skill training, better sewing machines, and support to expand their work.
Conclusion
PM Vishwakarma Yojana provides support for traditional craftspeople in India. This act protects their traditional craft and develops these individuals’ capabilities through various forms of labour provided through this programme in today’s economy. Through this programme, artisans’ abilities will improve through training, modern tools, and monetary assistance, giving them a greater income. The programme will preserve our cultural heritage and develop skills for the future by preserving our historical crafts.