Government Policy Review: PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME
Palak P. Kumar,
Amity University Haryana
ABSTRACT
India is filled with creativity. People all over the country are skillful and create new inventions in every aspect such as - informative technology, handicrafts, textiles, and all other goods. Despite being filled with cultural heritage, all over, where we lag is in giving proper encouragement and recognition to these skilled craftsmen. The Prime Minister, in a conference, addressed the Post Budget Webinar on “The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Samman”, which entirely focused on the PM VIKAS Scheme, which is dedicated to providing holistic support to these artisans and other crafts persons. The PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims to provide financial assistance and support to craftsmen, artisans, and all other traditional workers. These Vishwakarma will contribute to the country’s growth. Some of the factors of the following scheme are Financial Aid, Skill Training at Basic and Advanced Levels, Ease of Access to
Modern Tools and Technology, Paperless Payments, MSME, and Introduction to Global Markets. The PM Vishwakarma Scheme commits to cultural preservation, inclusivity of the economy, and self-empowerment.
Keywords: PM VIKAS, Skill Training, MSME.
1. INTRODUCTION
India is a land rich in history, culture, and religion. India is a beautiful country with unique societies and traditions. It has a rich cultural heritage and monuments. India is a mother of creativity. Numerous people from this country have such important skills in handcrafts and producing new inventions in the products in fabrics and all other goods. But indeed after having such important technology and invention, there's no proper recognition and goad to these professed tradesmen.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is named after the Hindu Deity - Lord Vishwakarma. Vishwakarma is defined as the presiding deity of artists and architects. He is believed to be the "Principal Architect of the Universe", and the early concept of Brahman and Purusha. Vishwakarma is considered to be the "Divine Engineer of the World '' and as a mark of reverence, he is not only worshipped by the engineering and the architectural community but also by all the professionals as well. It is customary for the craftsmen to worship their tools to his name.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, also known as the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma
Scheme, a Central Sector Scheme, was launched on 17th September 2023 by the Prime Minister to provide an end - to - end support to the artisans and craftsmen, who work with their hands and tools. The scheme covers artisans and craftsmen, engaged in more than ten trades such as blacksmiths, hammer and tool kit makers, locksmiths, goldsmiths, sculptors, garland makers, tailors, etc.
“Traditionally, crores of Vishwakarma, who create something or the other by working hard with their hands, tools, and equipment, are all the builders of this country. We have a huge list of countless people like blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, carpenters, artisans, etc. The country has brought various incentive schemes for the first time to support the hard work of all these Vishwakarma. Provisions have been made for training, technology, credit, and market support for such people. PM Vishwakarma will bring a sea change in the lives of crores of Vishwakarma's.”
Hon’ble Prime Minister, on 1st February 2023.
The Vishwakarma, will contribute to India's growth story and grow into a significant part of the country's growth as they seize the prospects for progress. It changes the small craftsmen into entrepreneurs.
2. PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
India's vibrant handicraft sector weaves a rich tapestry of social economic and cultural significance. It breathes life into the rural community, providing livelihood to people predominantly in the rural society. The people in rural society are usually, self-employed, and account for a significant section of the society. The artisan economy holds the potential for long-term employment generation and the sustainable growth of our country. Most of the artisans are Dalits (Harijans), Tribals, and Backward Communities, whose mobilities are restricted due to social and cultural norms. Therefore, the artisanal economy is crucial for the inclusion of the marginalized groups.
The Handicrafts sector plays a significant role in the country's economy. It employs a vast segment of the society. Handicrafts have great potential and they contribute to employment generation and exports.
Recently, the Prime Minister of India, launched the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana also regarded as the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Scheme, on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, to honor the artisans and craftsmen engaged in various types of traditional crafts and industries. The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme is designed to uplift the traditional artisans and craftspeople, who are engaged in various occupations such as blacksmithing, goldsmith thing, pottery, carpentry, etc, with the focus on preserving the rich cultural heritage and integrating them into the formal economy and global value chains.
A significant proportion of India’s workplace is made up of artisans and craftspeople who do manual labor, often as self-employed persons in the informal sector. The people, known as the “Vishwakarma”, work in traditional occupations.
The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), in the Nodal Ministry for the scheme. The PM Vishwakarma Scheme will be jointly implemented by the MoMSME, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship the Department of Financial Services, the Ministry of Finance, and the Government of
India.
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme would be executed as a Central Sector
Scheme, with the Government of India, entity funding for it. The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme will be implemented for 5 years which commenced from the Financial Year 2023 - 24 and will continue up to the Financial Year 2027 - 28. "Samman, Saamarthya and Samriddhi", are the three foundations of the following plan. The purpose of the program is to provide government aid to the workers who practice traditional crafts and abilities. It focuses on the economically and socially disadvantaged population of the society as its purpose is to provide government aid to workers to practice traditional crafts and abilities.
Under this scheme, the beneficiaries will be eligible for the first loan tranche on completion of 5 days of Basic Skill Training provided by the MDSE. The second loan tranche will be available to the skilled beneficiaries who maintain standard loan accounts and have adopted digital transactions in their business or have taken advanced skilled training. Beneficiaries will be eligible for a second tranche loan when the first loan is fully repaired but not before 6 months of the disbursement of the first loan. Beneficiaries will be provided with incentives for digital transactions and marketing support.
2.1 FEATURES OF THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
(i) Recognition and Support.
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme emphasizes Recognition and Support as artisans and craftspeople and those enrolled in the scheme will receive a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and an identity card. They will also be eligible for collateral received support of up to Rupees 1 Lakh (First Tranche) and Rupees 2 Lakh (Second Tranche), at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
(ii) Skill Development and Empowerment.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme has been allocated a Budget ranging from Rs. 13,000 Crores, for 5 Financial Years from 2023-24 to 2027-28. The Scheme offers a stipend of Rs. 500/- for skill training per day and Rs. 15,000/- grant for the purchase of modern tools and equipment.
(iii) Scope and Coverage.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme encompasses 18 traditional trades across both rural and urban areas, which include carpenters, boatmakers, potters, sculptors, etc.
(iv) Registration and Implementation.
Registration can be completed at the Common Service Centres (CSCs) in the villages and while the Central Government will provide funding for the scheme the State Government support will also be sought.
(v) Fusion of Traditionals with the Modern.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme helps to revive the traditional art forms through skill upgradation and the use of modern technology. It allows a collateral-free development loan of up to 3 Lakhs (in two tranches). The scheme aims to support these craftsmen with better and more modern and unique tools to make work efficient. The training and financial aid provided help to bridge the gap between arts and contemporary technology advancements.
(vi) Melting Pot of Multiple Art Forms.
The inclusion of a wide variety of arts in the scheme aligns with the Indian ethos of unity in diversity. The scheme brings together a wide variety of different art forms under the same umbrella.
(vii)One Skill, One Platform.
The scheme acts as a cultural thread that links the people at two levels. At one level, several scale sets are brought together under the scheme that connects people culturally. At the second level, the scheme also bridges the region's differences between workers.
(viii) Under the scheme, the Vishwakarma / beneficiaries will be registered free of charge through the common service centers using the biometric-based PM Vishwakarma Yojana portal.
(ix) The Vishwakarma will be provided recognition through the PM Vishwakarma Certificate and the ID Card.
(x) They will be provided with skill upgradation, involving basic and advanced training.
(xi) A Stipend of Rs. 500/-, will be provided for skill training and Rs. 1,500/-, to purchase the modern tools.
(xii) Beneficiaries can avail of a collateral fee credit up to Rs. 1 Lakh (first tranche) and Rs. 2 Lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
(xiii) Beneficiaries will be eligible for the First Loan Tranche on the completion of 5 days of Basic Skill Training provided by the MDSE. The second loan tranche will be available to the skilled beneficiaries who maintain standard loan accounts and have adopted digital transactions in their business or have taken advanced skilled training.
(xiv) Beneficiaries will be eligible for a second tranche loan when the first loan is fully repaired but not before 6 months of the disbursement of the first loan.
(xv) Beneficiaries will be provided with incentives for digital transactions and marketing support.
(xvi) The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is weaving the artists engaged in a multitude of crafts across the geographical and cultural faces into National recognition.
(xvii) The PM Vishwakarma Scheme empowers the artisans and nurtures their art along with the cultural cauldron of these artisans to grow and prosper with their work.
2.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme launched by the Government of India is a program geared towards boosting skill and innovation among the members of the Vishwakarma community.
The Objectives of the following scheme are -
(i) Encouraging Innovation
The objective of this scheme is to foster an innovative spirit among the students by providing opportunities and resources for them to develop new ideas and solutions.
(ii) Skill Development
This will focus on enhancing various fields including engineering, technology, and design as well as providing practical training across these disciplines. Upgrade their skills to ensure that they remain competitive in an evolving market.
(iii) Promoting Entrepreneurship
This can be achieved through the PM Vishwakarma Scheme where totalists who can be entrepreneurs are supported so that their innovative ideas can transform into viable business ventures.
(iv) Recognition of Artisans
To enable artisans and craft people to be recognized as Vishwakarma, thereby qualifying them for all the benefits under this scheme.
(v) Industry-Academia Collaboration
The main goal is to enhance the knowledge base by fostering collaborative initiatives between different industries and educational institutions. Thus, they need assistance with the acquisition of more current and upgraded tools that would make them perform better in terms of productivity, capacity, and standard of content.
(vi) Empowering Youth
The Prime Minister Vishwakarma Scheme 6 to empower young individuals by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in a competitive global environment.
(vii) Creating Employment Opportunities
By promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, Lucky aims to create new employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth.
(viii) To ensure that the artisans are seamlessly integrated into both the domestic and the Global value chains, thus enhancing their market access and opportunities.
(ix) To ensure that the artisans are seamlessly integrated into both the domestic and the global network.
(x) Preservation and the Promotion of India’s Rich Cultural Heritage of Traditional Crafts.
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme is designed to nurture a new generation of skilled and innovative youth who can contribute significantly to India's socio-economic development.
2.3 GUIDELINES OF THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
The Pradhan Mantri (PM) Vishwakarma Scheme, named after the "Hindu Deity of Artisans and Craftsman - Vishwakarma", includes the following guidelines -
(i) The PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims to support the traditional artisans and craftsmen by providing financial assistance, skills and training, and access to market opportunities.
(ii) It targets individuals who are engaged in national artisanal occupations such as carpentry, pottery, weaving, etc, and the emphasis is placed on providing skill development training to enhance the capabilities and market competitiveness in contemporary markets.
(iii) Under the scheme, the beneficiaries may receive financial support in the form of subsidies, grants, loans, or other incentives to promote their business and upgrade their skills.
(iv) The scheme may facilitate access to the market on both domestic and international levels through shows, exhibitions, cultural trade fairs, and by a medium of online platforms as well.
(v) The scheme is typically implemented at the state level with the government being responsible for identifying the beneficiary, disbursing the funds, and organizing training programs and there are mechanisms used for monitoring and evaluating the progress and impact of the scheme on the lives of people.
(vi) Efforts are made to create awareness about the scheme among the potential beneficiaries and to ensure the maximum participation of the audience.
The following Guidelines for the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, very effectively support the traditional artisans and craftsmen in improving their skills, addressing the financial resources, and exploring new and enhanced market opportunities for their livelihoods.
2.4 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND PARAMETERS OF EXCLUSION OF THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
Following are the Parameters that make a person eligible for any person to become the beneficiary of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme -
(i) Age of Majority. The individuals aged 18 years and above.
(ii) Only those individuals who involve hands-on experience and craftsmanship or artisans, those who are working under the traditional sectors dealing with the family-oriented sectors of the unorganized section working on a self-employment basis, are helped through the scheme.
(iii) The beneficiary should be actively involved and conducting the trade on the dates of registration and should not have availed loans under similar credit-based schemes of the Central or State Government, employment business development such as in PM SVANidhi, Mudra, PMEGP, in the past 5 years.
(iv) For registration and the benefits under the scheme, those shall be restricted to one member of the family. To avail of the benefits under this scheme, a "family", is defined as consisting of a husband, wife, and their unmarried children.
(v)Any person holding or has at any time held a position in government service and their family members shall not be eligible under the scheme.
(vi) To benefit from the outcome of this scheme, the following documents are required and should be easily accessible A. Aadhar Card.
B. Voter Identity Card.
C. Working Mobile Number.
D. Details of the Bank Account.
E. Income Certificate.
F. Caste Certificate (If Applicable).
(vii) In case the beneficiary is not having a ration card, they would be required to produce the Aadhar Cards of all the members of the family.[i]
(viii) In case the beneficiary has no account with the bank, he will first be asked to open an account for which hand-holding will be provided by the CSC as and when required.
2.5 APPLICATION PROCEDURE FOR APPLYING TO THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
To avail of the provisions provided in the online application process for the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, that have been initiated by the Government of India, is very easy and can be accomplished by following the few simple steps, which are -
Step No.1 - Open the PM Vishwakarma Scheme Website.
Firstly, the applicant who desires to receive the benefits of the scheme has to go to the official website of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which has been developed by the Government.
Step No. 2 - Enrollment.
Secondly, click on the "Register" option and go through the registration process by providing your mobile number and undergoing Aadhar e-KYC.
Step No. 3 - Craftsperson Enrollment Form.
Once you have successfully registered, proceed to "Apply Online For Artisan Registration Form".
Step No. 4 - Completion of the Form.
Very carefully, fill up the application form and ensure that every detail is as accurate as possible, which includes the applicant's name, skills, aadhar card number, and all other related information.
Step No. 5 - Documentation.
Once it is ensured that the form is completed in detail and revisions are made to include all the correct details, scan and attach the necessary documents such as A. Aadhar Card.
B. Bank Details.
C. Skill Certificate(s), etc.
Step No. 6 - Application Submission.
Proofread your application before submitting it. On applying, the applicant would be issued with a tracking number, namely the Application ID.
2.6 ELIGIBLE TRADES FOR THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
The Government Ministry commented that the Vishwakarma community members have been brought to the government facilities as a way to get associated with the prospects of development of the nation as it plans to extend recognition to the workforce who have been left unnoticed for a very long time.
The today's admired Seven Wonders of the World, have also been built by the Vishwakarma members.
Eighteen traditional trades are encompassed under the scheme by the Government of India. It has been very clear that the night makers and both makers are central to the development of the small-scale industries and fisheries sectors are essential as they have a central role in the working of the fishing industry and they are referred to as the “Backbone of the Indian Marine Fisheries”.
Following is the list of the 18 trades that are being benefited under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
S.No.
Name of the Trade
1.
Carpenter (Suthar/Badhai)
2.
Boat Maker
3.
Armour
4.
Blacksmith (Lohar)
5.
Hammer and Tool Kit Maker
6.
Locksmith
7.
Goldsmith (Sonar)
8.
Potter (Kumhaar)
9.
Sculptor (Morrtikar/Stone Carver/Stone Breaker)
10.
Cobbler
11.
Mason (Rajmistri)
12.
Basket, Mat, Broom Maker
13.
Barber
14.
Garland Maker
15.
Washermen
16.
Tailor
17.
Fishing Net Maker
18.
Doll and Toy Maker (Traditional)
2.7 BENEFITS OF THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme offers the following benefits to the people-
(i) Recognition through the PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card.
The identification of the artisans and the craftspeople will be reflected in the PM Vishwakarma Scheme Certificate and the ID Card. Ionic digital numbers shall be generated and complied with on the documentation to be fixed on the certificate and the identity card. The certificate Shail enables the participant's recognition as a Vishwakarma and shall make them eligible for availing all the benefits under the Vishwakarma Scheme. The PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID card will be in the electronic form along with the physical form for beneficiaries.
The PM Vishwakarma Certificate is a formal document that acts as evidence of engagement in the scheme, acknowledging the artisan's skills and proficiency in the traditional trade. It has the potential to boost credibility and market appeal.
The PM Vishwakarma Identity Card server is a means of identification and verification. This card validates the artisan's involvement and skills, opening doors to diverse benefits and opportunities within the scheme.
(ii) Skill Upgradation.
The skilling intervention under PM Vishwakarma focuses on strengthening the capacity of traditional artists and craftspeople, who have been working by hand and the traditional tools as their art.
The intervention consists of three components which are -
A. Skill Assessment
B. Basic Training
C. Advanced Training
This has conceptualized the domain skilling as Skill Upgradation that will incorporate modern tools, design aspects, and integration with the sector value chain. It will also include the factors that will help Vishwakarma to gain access to other aspects of the scheme. The training will aim at detailing and supporting the beneficiaries to improve the quality of their products.
Every beneficiary shall be entitled to a training stipend of Rs. 500/- per day while undergoing the basic and advanced training program. The training stipend will be credited to the respective beneficiary through DBT Mode, the moment the training is completed and certification is procured.
(iii) Tool Kit Incentive.
During the beginning of the basic training schedule, a toolkit incentive of up to Rs.
15,000/- shall be granted to the beneficiary after the completion of the Skill Assessment. The incentive will be provided through e-vouchers which means that they will be able to utilize and the designated centers will be able to purchase better toolkits. The Vishwakarma will be given a digital guide and sometimes a short video tutorial, which will help to make them aware and competent enough to better handle most of the tools that are being used in today's world. These improvements to tools and kits shall help the Vishwakarma to upgrade their standards and quality of products with increased production rates giving more value to the products.
(iv) Credit Support.
To boost the traditional artistic and craft work skills and profile, the feasibility of four double credits under the scheme will be provided. To avail the first tranche of the credit support under the scheme, the beneficiary had to be capable of passing through the scale assessment test as well as completing the basic training. This component intends to ensure that Vishwakarma has equipped access to cheap and institutional credit for enterprise development through the following incentives.
The Incentives include -
A. Enterprise Development Loans.
B. Concessional Interest and Intrest Subvention.
C. Credit Guarantee.
(v) Incentives for Digital Transactions.
Specifically, the scheme is expected to make the beneficiaries financially included as
it enables them to engage in digital transactions. An amount for eligible digital transactions up to 100 eligible transactions and these incentives are to be credited to the beneficiary's bank account in DBT Mode through the Aadhaar Payment Bridge System (APBS). A key element of the scheme is to encourage artisan and craft persons involved in the production of merchandise for sale online by offering them cashback from digital transactions. It is also useful to leave an online transaction trail, which is expected to improve the credit code of skilled workers for their future loans.
This incentive is more about trying to create a new hope of culture change with regards to using the app as a way to go about doing things among Vishwakarma's accepting the digital payment ecosystem.
(vi) Marketing Support.
Establishing the market links for the Vishwakarma physiochemical stop in enhancing their existence and quality of life. The scheme will offer a certificate to every person and the National Committee for Marketing, (NCM), will help market and brand the product or the registered people under the scheme.
Quality Certification and Brandin, Advertising, Publicity, and other market activity and marketing support would be provided to the beneficiaries aiming to strengthen the links to the value chain of the MSME and the established companies.
This was designed to be achieved through the following techniques A. Quality Certification.
B. E-Commerce.
C. Market Links.
D. Exports and Traders.
E. Trade Fairs
F. Assistance for Collective Display of the products under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
Any individual who is willing to avail the benefits under the PM Vishwakarma
Scheme may register on the government portal.[ii]
2.8 BUDGET AND FUNDING FOR THE
PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
Revealing the Budget, Hon'ble Finance Minister, Ms. Nirmala Sitaraman, said that the PM Vishwakarma Scheme has been approved by the ministry/cabinet wise decisions taken by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), as per the budget reviewed with Budget Allocation of Rs. 13,000 Crores, for 5 Financial Years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
The Initial Collateral Free Enterprise Development Loan is up to Rs. 1,00,000/- and is only available for a tenure of 18 months.
2.9 IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISM OF THE
PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
The Implementation Mechanism of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme typically involves several key steps and holders such as -
(i) Identification of the Beneficiaries.
The state governments act as the local implementing agencies in charging out traditional artists and craftsmen including carpenters, potters, weavers, fishers, etc. This process of identification may require persons to be registered with the artisan boards or other similar bodies.
(ii) Registration and Documentation.
The beneficiaries will have to enroll in the scheme and this may involve supplying documents such as evidence of Identity, residence, and type of occupation.
(iii) Financial Allocation.
The scheme receives its funding from the various inputs provided by the respective state government to be used on various sub-activities such as financial support for subsidies, skill development programs, marketing as well as administrative expenses.
(iv) Financial Assistance.
It assists its beneficiaries by financing grants, subsidies, loans, or other incentives for business development, acquisition of equipment, improvement in infrastructure, or an expanding operation.
(v) Skill Development.
Training programs are also carried out to improve the skills of the artisans and master the most current techniques used quality, and market trends. Such programs can be offered by the respective ministers of all departments of the government or by the NGO or any other training organization as may be designated.
(vi) Links with Market.
Vigorous attempts and efforts are made to approach the artisans with the domestic and traditional markets. This includes selling and displaying through art exhibitions, trade shows, and through the internet where the artists can market their works.
(vii) Monitoring and Evaluation.
Systems and mechanisms are in progress made by the beneficiaries and access the performance of the scheme which assists in reviewing the success of interventions and recommendations that are being made.
(viii) Awareness and Outreach.
Education and Publicity are done to bring the attention of the target beneficiaries to the scheme and how they can benefit and participate in the scheme. This also includes advocating for the preservation of cultural identity through encouraging the continued practice of traditional arts and crafts.
(ix) Coordination and Collaboration.
The implementation component entails the operationalization of the rendition of experts, various government agencies, local bodies, and other stakeholders that enhance smooth execution and optimize impact.
The Implementation Mechanism of the PM VISHWAKARMA SCHEME aims to empower traditional artists and crafts when they are providing them with the necessary support, skills, and opportunities to sustain and grow their livelihoods in a competitive market environment.
2.10 MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF THE
PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
The Monitoring of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is done by the monitoring organizations of the government department, which usually includes the implementing agencies or independent evaluators.
Monitoring is done through the following steps -
(i) Monitoring, in this case, refers to keeping track of the impact of the scheme that uses clothes on the subject, the number of beneficiaries it has reached, improvement in the livelihood, and the increase in the level of income and skills.
(ii) It comprehensively explains the Monetary Financial aspects and proves that the monetary resources provided to the scheme are properly spent.
(iii) Implementation and the progress tracking of search activities are being monitored to keep a record of all the activities around the planned timetable.
(iv) Monitoring also centered on safeguarding the quality of services that are rendered under the scheme which has a bearing on the quality of training programs and outcomes.
(v) Both the beneficiaries and the implementing agencies, are asked to fill a feedback form a survey to assess the satisfaction and the dissatisfaction and the challenges and drawbacks to get ideas for improvement.
(vi) Regular audits and compliance checks ensure that the scheme operates within the level and regulatory Framework which helps in preventing misuse of funds, verifying data accuracy, and ensuring transparency in operation.
(vii) The monetary results are reported with the period-wise reports that provide insight into the scheme's performance graph which is mostly issued to the policymakers for more enhancement and further enforcement.
The conclusion and the suggestions made by the monetary activities also assist the involved organizations, developing appropriate mechanisms for decision-making with the improving implementation strategies as well as optimizing the stream's positive effects on the traditional craftsmen and people.
2.11 LEGAL POLICY FRAMEWORK OF THE
PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
Like any other policy of the government, the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme operates as a legal framework that governs the rights of the beneficiaries.
The common aspects of legal considerations for schemes are -
(i) Constitutional Provisions
All the schemes that are made by the government are run as per the framework set down by the Constitution of India, to respect both the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of the State Policy relating to economic welfare, social justice, and livelihood opportunities for people.
(ii) Legislation and Government Orders.
The scheme is usually backed up by a piece of legislation or order that outlines its objective, implementation guidelines, financial provisions, and mechanism for monetary and evaluation, stimulating the goals of the scheme.
(iii) Registration and Documentation.
Beneficiaries/Recipients may be asked to enroll under the scheme and submit necessary documents such as identity proof, residence, and occupation. The registration process ensures accountability and proper targeting of benefits.
(iv) Financial Management.
The scheme includes the State Budget and the Central Banks that work under some financial acts and regulations to enable the transparent flow of funds before the public.
(v) Contractual Agreements.
Where the scheme entails monetary support, such as skill development training or procurement of goods and services the contractual modalities may be necessary between the implementing agencies and the beneficiaries to set appropriate publication and terms of agreement.
(vi) Intellectual Property Rights.
Legal professionals connected with the IPR may approach the artists and traditional crafts and products insurance protection from unauthorized use or exploitation.
(vii) Labor Laws.
The scheme must satisfy the provisions of the labor laws about wages, working conditions, and the rights of the workers participating in the training programs offered under the scheme or participating in production activities financed under the scheme.
(viii) Consumer Protection.
If the scheme invoice promotes any artisanal products in the market the laws and regulations that govern the consumer protection concerning the quality, safety, and the fair pricing of products are sold.
(ix) Data Protection and Privacy.
In light of this scheme, any data collected from the beneficiaries has to be respected and processed in a way that will protect the data as per the Data Protection Legislation so that the beneficiary's private information is safeguarded.
(x) Compliance and Audits.
Some sort of audits and compliance checks might be performed to ensure the proper functioning of the scheme and to see whether the negative use of the funds and inoperative legislation provisions are effectively prevented.
2.12 PUBLIC AWARENESS AND OUTREACH CONCERNING THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
Spreading awareness is crucial to ensure maximum participation and availing benefits for the traditional artisans and craftsmen.
Following mentioned below are some strategies to spread public awareness -
❖ Utilizing Government Channels.
❖ Organizing Special Events and Exhibitions.
❖ Partnerships with NGOs and other Community Organisations.
❖ Media Engagement.
❖ Use of Mobile Phones and Digital Platforms.
❖ Printed Brochures.
❖ Workshops and Training Sessions and Seminars.
❖ Feedback Mechanisms.
2.13 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE PRADHAN MANTRI VISHWAKARMA SCHEME.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is very relevant for the small tradesmen and artisans throughout the country, thus, it has its importance.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme will work to empower a group of people who are
engaged in various occupations that involve both traditional and skilled professions. In such a scheme, the government will directly intervene by trailing the people together with them, identifying their fields of skills, and providing them with technology for their overall improvement.
Thus, this scheme is based on the principle of unearthing the hidden talents and capabilities of thousands and thousands of artists and craftsmen scattered all over India.
Some of the main factors of the scheme are -
1. Financial Aid.
2. Advanced Skill Training 3. Integration into the MSME's.
4. Paperless Payments.
5. Introduction and Wide Teach to a Global Market.
"Mr. X, a goldsmith for the past 25 years, said through the news channel that, though, the art of jewelry making is very rich, it has no support now, the traditional art is on the verge of extinction"
A Goldsmith, Thanking the Prime Minister for launching the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
"When the cottage industries are facing a crisis, the Prime Minister's PM Vishwakarma Scheme has helped to build up the cottage industries. The person also appreciated the Prime Minister for considering boat making in the scheme and supporting the deep sea fisherman".
A Fisherman Leader.
"I was a homemaker. Tailoring helped me to be independent and self-reliant. I benefited from the days of training and all should utilize the scheme".
A Beneficiary.
"I am living a hand-to-mouth existence by weaving fishing nets. Any person who comes into contact with the beneficiaries will be provided two square meals a day through the scheme."
A Fishing Net Weaver.
"We've been constructing boats with fiberglass, wood, and steel and for the first time, we received support as the government has come to our help."
A Boat Maker.
These revealed that the role of net makers and boat makers in the development of small-scale industries and the fisheries sector was central to the successful functioning of the fishing industry.
The Vishwakarma (Traditional Artisans), personalizes creation responsibility in the society irrespective of the technological developments. It helps in carrying forward the traditions that are followed over the ages, the skills of the generation, and the focus of the Guru Shishya Tradition.
3. CONCLUSION
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, or in full, "The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma
Yojana", is designed to help the poor, skilled artisans, and craftsmen to economically and financially uplift them and get out of poverty. It allows the artisans and small craftsmen and workers to get better tools, training, training, and market exposure by which they can increase and enhance their skills which would improve their livelihoods.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, not only has been set but as it was launched and came into force, it began to produce skilled and creative people. The scheme also initiated the link between artisans and private-sector employees. On the one hand, the scheme truly revives and supports authenticity by helping the traditional crafts modernize artisanal practices and encouraging the local communities to continue that tradition on the other hand, the implementation of experienced craftsmanship also contributes to increasing employment and economic revenue in the rural and urban region. The scheme not only preserves the cultural heritage but also boosts economic development in rural and urban areas, alike.
Skilled as well as innovative persons have been produced by the PM Vishwakarma Scheme since it was established, introduced, and begun. The linkage between the scheme and the artisans with those from the private sector has also been initiated under this scheme. Thus, on one hand, the scheme can be seen as the actual resurgence of authenticity by protecting the traditional crafts and innovating the craftsmanship whilst encouraging locals to carry it forward while on the other hand, there are more jobs generated through experienced craftwork leading to more income and rural areas than urban ones. More so, this program does not only preserve cultural heritage but also contributes towards economic development both in rural areas and the cities.
In conclusion, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims to create a sustainable environment for artisans where artisans can explore and contribute to India's socio-economic progress.
4. BIBLIOGRAPHY
❖ https://pmvishwakarma.gov.in/
❖ https://www.investindia.gov.in/
❖ https://www.deccanherald.com/
❖ https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1958332
❖ https://www.handicrafts.nic.in/
[i] Paragraph 4 on the Guidelines on Eligibility.
Registration Portal for the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.