‘Preserve traditional crafts of Srinagar’

Srinagar, Mar 10:  The District Administration Srinagar in collaboration with the Ministry of Micro Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Skill Development and District Industries Centre today organised a one-day awareness program on the  PM Vishwakarma scheme launched to uplift traditional Artisans and Craftspeople.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat was the Chief Guest of the programme held at Banquet Hall.

The programme was attended by stakeholders and beneficiaries to further amplify the awareness to ensure effective implementation of the scheme and fully harness its potential for the betterment of the Artisan community.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC stressed on better implementation of the scheme to ensure that its benefits reach to the Artisans contributing in preservation of traditional and heritage crafts.

Highlighting the features of PM Vishwakarma initiative, the DC said that the scheme will directly benefit the Artisans of the District working with their hands and tools, besides transforming the lives of the Artisans and Craftspeople contributing in preservation of traditional and heritage crafts.

The DC further said the scheme will enable the recognition of Artisans and Craftspeople as Vishwakarmas (Traditional Artisans) making them eligible to avail the benefits under the Scheme.

The DC emphasised on implementing the scheme effectively to cover all eligible beneficiaries across the District in the identified trades to enhance livelihood opportunities at grassroots level.

Earlier, Assistant Director MSME underlined the collaborative effort of the Ministry of MSME field Office Srinagar and the District Administration Srinagar signifying a proactive approach to empower local Artisans and promote sustainable socio-economic growth of the Artisans and craftspeople in the District.

Pertinent to mention that PM Vishwakarma scheme offers a range of benefits including toolkit incentive of Rs 15,000, training to artisans, Rs 500 per day during training, collateral-free credit support up to Rs 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs 2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5%, incentives for digital transactions and marketing support.

At present Government has recognized 18 trades under PM Vishwakarma scheme including Carpenter, Boat Maker, Armorer, Blacksmith, Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Locksmith, Goldsmith, Potter, Cobbler, Masons, Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver, Doll & Toy Maker, Barber, Garland Maker, Washerman, Tailor and Fishing Net Maker.

During the programme, various Artisans were registered on the PM Vishwakarma portal using biometrics.