345/2024-2025
Aizawl, the 29th November, 2024: Mizoram Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati visited a three-day exhibition-cum-trade fair for beneficiaries of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, organized jointly by the MSME Development & Facilitation Office, Aizawl under Union Ministry of MSME and Mizoram's Commerce & Industries Department at the Assam Rifles Ground in Aizawl, this afternoon.
While interacting with the concerned officials and beneficiaries at the PM Vishwakarma Exhibition-cum-Trade Fair, the Governor stated that he visited the exhibition to understand the real scenario of implementation of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme in the State. He urged the stakeholders involved in this initiative to make every effort to ensure its effective implementation and success. He emphasized the importance of empowering traditional artisans and craftsmen to make them stand in their own legs through their skills under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
The Governor reiterated that the necessary financial support and toolkit required by the beneficiaries be provided and that they be equipped with training and guidance to enhance their skills, market opportunities also need to be explored, he added. Underscoring the urgent need to make proper bank linkage, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati urged the bankers to ensure that loans are easily accessible to the beneficiaries and further advised them to consider giving assistance through the Mudra Scheme, which allows loans of up to Rs.10 lakh.
As of today, a total of 10,742 applications have been submitted under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme in Mizoram. Among these, 2,609 applicants have been approved, while the remaining applications are still under review. Training for 194 beneficiarues under carpentry trade has been completed. Out of 59 loan applicants, loans have been sanctioned to 4 beneficiaries.
The PM Vishwakarma Exhibition-cum-Trade Fair in Aizawl features around 50 stalls showcasing various products crafted by artisans from different parts of Mizoram. Apart from these, Banks, National Small Industries Corporation, KVIC, GeM and RDSDE offer detailed information and benefits about the scheme. Those interested in registering under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme can do so directly at the Common Service Centre set up at the venue to avail the scheme.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims to promote traditional artisans and craftmen by supporting them in their trade. The scheme focuses on 18 trades, participants undergoing basic training receive an honorarium of Rs 3,000, a toolkit worth up to Rs 15,000 and are eligible for loans up to Rs 3,00,000 at a concessional 5% interest rate.
