New Opportunities for Women and Youth: Vishwakarma Scheme Transforms Lives

The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, organized the “PM Vishwakarma and National SC-ST Hub Mega Conclave” in Bodh Gaya today. The event marked the second anniversary of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. On this occasion, an exhibition was also held, showcasing and selling products crafted by artisans and craftsmen.

PM Vishwakarma Scheme: Two Years of Achievements:

Union Minister Shri Manjhi, in his address, highlighted the remarkable progress made by the scheme since its launch by the Prime Minister on 17 September 2023:

1. 30 lakh artisans and craftsmen have been connected to the scheme.
2. 23 lakh beneficiaries received free skill training.
3. 8 lakh toolkits were distributed through India Post.
4. Loans worth ₹4,100 crore were sanctioned to 5 lakh beneficiaries without collateral.

In Bihar alone, 1.62 lakh artisans have registered, of which 1.05 lakh received training, and 19,000 beneficiaries were granted loans worth over ₹160 crore. Notably, 92% of beneficiaries belong to SC, ST, and OBC communities, while 33% are women. In Gaya district, 735 beneficiaries received loans worth ₹7 crore.

Inspiring Women and Youth Towards Entrepreneurship:

Union Minister of State Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, addressing the gathering, congratulated all beneficiaries and especially encouraged women to embrace entrepreneurship. She emphasized that women’s empowerment is key to a brighter future for society and the nation.

Exhibition and Technical Sessions:

A two-day exhibition (17–18 September 2025) featured over 100 stalls where artisans from different districts and states displayed and sold their products. Technical sessions were also organized on marketing, branding, packaging, and related topics, providing valuable guidance and support to participants.

Certificates and Toolkits Distributed:

More than 2,500 beneficiaries of PM Vishwakarma, PMEGP, and the National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) participated in the Mega Conclave.

1. Loan certificates and toolkits were distributed to beneficiaries.
2. PMEGP beneficiaries received margin money subsidy.
3. Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) distributed sewing machines.
4. NSSH beneficiaries were awarded certificates of appreciation.
5. Strengthening the Scheme with New Partnerships

To further strengthen the implementation of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, the MSME Ministry signed MoUs with the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, and the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA).