The Indian government has launched significant initiatives aimed at empowering artisans and promoting traditional industries. The PM Vishwakarma Yojana, introduced on September 17, 2023, alongside the “Assistance to Training Institutions (ATI)” Scheme, marks a major push towards enhancing the support structure for craftsmen and skill development across the nation.
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is designed to provide comprehensive support to artisans who work with their hands and traditional tools. The scheme offers a range of benefits, including PM Vishwakarma Certificates and ID Cards, skill upgradation, toolkit incentives, credit support, incentives for digital transactions, and marketing assistance. This initiative has been rolled out nationwide, including in Karnataka. In Chikkaballapur district, 97,356 applications have been received, with 17,696 successful registrations, showcasing the scheme’s positive reception among local artisans.
In addition, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) continues to advance its “Assistance to Training Institutions (ATI)” Scheme. This program is crucial for strengthening the capacity of training institutions and supporting skill development training. The ATI Scheme is demand-driven, with funds released as follows over the past three years and the current year (up to July 26, 2024):
- FY 2021-22: Rs. 47.96 crore
- FY 2022-23: Rs. 21.99 crore
- FY 2023-24: Rs. 13.76 crore
- FY 2024-25 (as of July 26, 2024): Rs. 5.25 crore
These funds are vital for enhancing the infrastructure of training institutions and expanding skill development programs, which are essential for fostering entrepreneurship and improving job prospects.
Karnataka’s Khadi industry also continues to thrive, contributing significantly to the state’s economy. For the fiscal year 2023-24, the industry reported a production value of Rs. 49,943.44 lakhs and generated employment for 27,612 individuals. Managed by non-profit Khadi Institutions, the Khadi programme supports traditional handspun and handwoven fabric production while providing sustainable livelihoods.
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to supporting artisans, enhancing skill development, and promoting traditional industries. The PM Vishwakarma Yojana and ATI Scheme, alongside the successful Khadi industry programs, collectively contribute to economic growth, preservation of cultural heritage, and improved livelihoods for artisans and small businesses throughout India.
