J&K leads nation as Ministry of MSME delivers 17k toolkits to artisans

Srinagar, Mar 7: Jammu and Kashmir has achieved the top position nationwide with approximately 17,000 toolkits delivered directly to artisans' homes under the PM Vishwakarma scheme.

This achievement highlights the Union Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises' (MSME) commitment to providing tangible benefits to traditionally underserved artisans at the grassroots level.

The Union Ministry has been actively promoting artisans in traditional trades including sculptors, fisher net makers, hammer and toolkit makers, and boat makers under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. These trades have historically seen low participation in government schemes, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.

Assistant Director, MSME, Saheel Alaqband detailed the efforts of the Branch MSME DFO Srinagar in raising awareness and encouraging participation across the Kashmir region.

"Recently, our office collaborated with district administrations in Ganderbal, Baramulla, and Pulwama to conduct awareness programs targeting these low-participation trades," said Alaqband.