Jaipur. To align traditional skills with the demands of the contemporary market, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana focuses on providing artisans and craftspeople with training, modern tools, and financial assistance. For individuals engaged in traditional trades—such as carpenters, masons, blacksmiths, tailors, potters, and goldsmiths—this scheme offers an opportunity to enhance their work and foster self-employment.

In Rajasthan, over 2.30 lakh artisans have registered under this scheme, placing the state fourth in the country in terms of registrations. According to data related to the scheme, 2,22,473 beneficiaries in Rajasthan have completed their foundational training. Furthermore, 2,17,084 toolkit e-vouchers have been issued, and more than 62,000 loans have been sanctioned. These figures reflect the progress made in the state regarding registration, skill development, and the provision of financial assistance under the scheme.

Empowering Skills with Modern Technology

While traditional artisans possess extensive work experience and practical expertise, limited capital and outdated tools often hinder the growth of their enterprises. As technology evolves and customer needs shift, there is an increasing requirement for new tools and training to improve the quality of their work.

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana, launched under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was initiated specifically to address these needs. In Rajasthan, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, emphasis is being placed on enrolling eligible artisans in the scheme. The objective is to strengthen traditional trades and provide artisans with better livelihood opportunities based on their existing skills.

Significant Participation Among Carpenters and Masons

Artisans from various traditional trades have registered for the scheme in Rajasthan. According to available data, 45,958 artisans have registered under the carpenter category, and 38,450 have registered under the mason category. In these trades, the use of modern tools and techniques can help improve both the quality of work and productivity. Through this scheme, efforts are being made to provide eligible artisans with training and support, enabling them to adapt their craft to meet market demands.

Improving Work Quality Through Training

The PM Vishwakarma scheme includes provisions for both basic and advanced training. In Rajasthan, 222,473 beneficiaries have already completed their basic training. During these sessions, artisans receive instruction on techniques specific to their trade, the effective use of tools, and methods to enhance the quality of their work.

Today, consumer preferences and market demands are constantly evolving. Consequently, combining traditional expertise with an understanding of modern technology has become essential. Through training, artisans can better organize their work and adopt new practices that align with contemporary requirements.

According to data from a concurrent evaluation conducted by IIM Mumbai, 93 percent of the surveyed beneficiaries reported a significant increase in their income following the training. As this figure pertains specifically to the individuals included in the survey, it should not be assumed to apply uniformly to all beneficiaries of the scheme.

Toolkit Assistance of Up to ₹15,000

To ensure artisans have access to better equipment, the scheme provides assistance of up to ₹15,000 for the purchase of toolkits. In Rajasthan, 217,084 e-vouchers for toolkits have already been issued.

Access to modern tools can help artisans increase precision, save time, and produce higher-quality goods. From carpenters and masons to other traditional craftspeople, the availability of proper tools can prove highly beneficial in their daily work. However, the full benefit of this support can only be realized if artisans are able to utilize tools tailored to the needs of their trade and secure a sufficient customer base for their finished products or services.

Over 62,000 loans sanctioned, aiding business expansion

Expanding a small business requires capital. Financial resources play a crucial role in procuring raw materials, acquiring tools, and scaling up operations. With this in mind, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana includes provisions to provide loans to eligible beneficiaries at a concessional interest rate.

Under the scheme, eligible artisans can obtain a loan of up to ₹3 lakh. In Rajasthan alone, more than 62,000 loans have been sanctioned to date. The availability of these loans is subject to specific eligibility criteria and prescribed terms and conditions.

The objective of providing a comprehensive package—including training, toolkits, and loans—is to assist artisans in advancing their traditional trades. This enables them to leverage self-employment opportunities and manage their work in a more organized manner.

Target of 3 million (30 lakh) registrations nationwide achieved ahead of schedule

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana has been expanded to a national scale. According to available data, the central government had set a target to register 3 million (30 lakh) artisans and craftspeople by 2028—a goal that was met well ahead of the deadline. By September 30, 2026, a total of 3,003,925 artisans and craftspeople had been registered across the country. During the same period, over 2.439 million (24.39 lakh) beneficiaries nationwide completed their foundational training. Furthermore, more than 623,000 (6.23 lakh) loans were sanctioned, amounting to a total value of approximately ₹5,350 crore. Across the country, more than 2.617 million (26.17 lakh)...