PM Vishwakarma Yojana, also known as PM Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana, is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Government of India on 17 September 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the auspicious occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti. This scheme is designed to provide end-to-end support to traditional artisans and craftspeople who work with their hands and tools in the unorganized sector. The primary vision is to preserve India’s rich cultural heritage while empowering millions of skilled workers with modern tools, financial assistance, and market access.
The scheme is managed by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) and operates with a massive budget outlay of ₹13,000 crore spanning from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28. Unlike many other welfare schemes that offer one-time benefits, PM Vishwakarma provides a holistic package including skill training, toolkit grants, collateral-free credit, marketing support, and digital transaction incentives. This multi-pronged approach ensures that artisans not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The name “Vishwakarma” pays homage to Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect and craftsman in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the government’s commitment to honoring those who keep India’s traditional crafts alive through generations.
Quick Overview of PM Vishwakarma Yojana
Here is a complete snapshot of the scheme for quick reference:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | PM Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana |
| Launch Date | 17 September 2023 |
| Launch Event Venue | Yashobhoomi Convention Center, Dwarka, New Delhi |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) |
| Scheme Type | Central Sector Scheme |
| Total Budget Outlay | ₹13,000 crore (2023-24 to 2027-28) |
| Target Beneficiaries | 30 lakh artisans and craftspeople by 2028 |
| Trades Covered | 18 family-based traditional trades |
| Minimum Age | 18 years at time of registration |
| Toolkit Incentive | ₹15,000 (e-RUPI voucher) |
| Training Stipend | ₹500 per day during basic and advanced training |
| Basic Training Duration | 5-7 days (40 hours) |
| Advanced Training Duration | 15 days or more |
| Loan Amount (Total) | Up to ₹3 lakh (collateral-free) |
| First Loan Tranche | Up to ₹1 lakh (18 months repayment) |
| Second Loan Tranche | Up to ₹2 lakh (30 months repayment) |
| Interest Rate | 5% per annum (effective rate after subsidy) |
| Interest Subvention | Up to 8% by Government of India |
| Digital Transaction Incentive | ₹1 per transaction (up to 100 transactions/month) |
| Application Mode | Online via CSC (Common Service Centres) |
| Official Website | pmvishwakarma.gov.in |
| Helpline Numbers | 1800-267-7777 and 17923 |
| Application Fee | NIL (CSC service charge capped at ₹25-50) |
| Registration Validity | Until FY 2027-28 |
Objectives and Purpose Behind the Scheme
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana was conceived with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by India’s traditional artisan community. These skilled workers form the backbone of India’s rural and semi-urban economy but often struggle with limited access to capital, outdated tools, and lack of market connectivity.
Core Objectives:
- Preserve Traditional Crafts: Protect and promote India’s diverse heritage of handmade goods, from pottery and weaving to metalwork and tailoring
- Skill Enhancement: Upgrade artisan skills through structured training programs that blend traditional techniques with modern technology
- Financial Inclusion: Provide collateral-free credit to artisans who typically lack access to formal banking channels
- Digital Integration: Encourage adoption of digital payment systems to bring artisans into the formal economy
- Market Linkage: Connect artisans with e-commerce platforms, trade fairs, and export opportunities
- Women Empowerment: Specifically target women artisans and those from SC/ST/OBC communities
- Economic Upliftment: Transform self-employed artisans into micro-entrepreneurs with sustainable incomes
Why This Scheme is Unique:
Unlike conventional loan schemes, PM Vishwakarma offers a complete ecosystem of support. An artisan doesn’t just get a loan — they receive recognition through a digital certificate, modern tools through a voucher, training to improve productivity, and marketing support to sell their products. This 360-degree approach addresses the root causes of artisan poverty rather than just providing temporary relief.
List of 18 Trades Covered Under the Scheme
The scheme covers artisans engaged in 18 specific family-based traditional trades across various material categories. Here is the complete categorized list:
| Category | Trades Covered |
|---|---|
| Wood Based | Carpenter (Suthar / Badhai), Boat Maker |
| Iron / Metal Based | Armourer, Blacksmith (Lohar), Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Locksmith |
| Gold / Silver Based | Goldsmith (Sonar) |
| Clay Based | Potter (Kumhaar) |
| Stone Based | Sculptor (Moortikar / Stone Carver), Stone Breaker |
| Leather Based | Cobbler (Charmakar / Shoesmith / Footwear Artisan) |
| Architecture / Construction | Mason (Rajmistri) |
| Fiber / Weaving | Basket / Mat / Broom Maker / Coir Weaver, Fishing Net Maker |
| Toy and Doll Making | Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional) |
| Personal Services | Barber (Naai), Washerman (Dhobi), Tailor (Darzi) |
| Floral / Decorative | Garland Maker (Malakaar) |
Important Notes on Trade Eligibility:
- You can register under only one primary trade — the one that represents your main source of income
- The trade must be practiced on a self-employment basis in the unorganized sector
- You must be actively engaged in the trade at the time of registration
- Family-based trades mean the skill is typically passed down through generations
- During verification, officials will visit your workshop to confirm you actually practice the declared trade
Eligibility Criteria for Artisans and Craftspeople
Before applying, ensure you meet all the eligibility conditions. The scheme has strict criteria to ensure benefits reach genuine artisans.
Must-Have Qualifications:
- Age: Minimum 18 years on the date of registration
- Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen and resident
- Employment Status: Engaged in self-employment in the unorganized sector
- Trade: Working in one of the 18 specified traditional trades
- Work Nature: Must work with hands and tools (not mechanized factory work)
- Active Practice: Must be actively involved in the relevant business at the time of application
Exclusion Criteria (Who Cannot Apply):
- Government employees (Central or State) and their immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children)
- Anyone who has availed loans under similar central or state credit-based schemes in the last 5 years
- This includes: PM SVANidhi, PMEGP, MUDRA, or any other self-employment loan scheme
- Exception: Applicants who have fully repaid their MUDRA or SVANidhi loans can apply
- Only one member per family (including husband, wife, and unmarried children) can enroll
Special Conditions:
- The 5-year cooling period is calculated from the date of loan sanction
- You must not be currently employed in any government service
- Your Aadhaar must be linked to an active mobile number for OTP verification
- You must have a functional bank account in your name
Documents Required for Registration
Having the correct documents ready before visiting the CSC will make your registration smooth and quick. Here is the complete checklist:
| Document | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Identity verification + e-KYC | Must be linked to active mobile number |
| Mobile Number | OTP verification and communication | Same number linked to Aadhaar |
| Bank Account Details | DBT for stipend, loan, and incentives | Passbook or cancelled cheque |
| Ration Card | Family verification | If unavailable, Aadhaar of all family members needed |
| Voter ID Card | Additional identity proof | Useful if Aadhaar has issues |
| Proof of Occupation | Trade verification | Photos of workshop, tools, previous work samples |
| Passport-size Photograph | Record maintenance | Recent photo for application form |
| Caste Certificate | For SC/ST/OBC category benefits | If applicable |
| Income Certificate | Economic status assessment | Issued by Tehsildar |
| Trade Self-Declaration | Confirming your trade | Filled at CSC during registration |
Pro Tips for Documentation:
- Ensure your bank account name matches exactly with your Aadhaar name
- If you don’t have a bank account, the CSC will help you open one
- Carry photos of your workshop and tools on your phone for verification
- Update your Aadhaar mobile number before applying if it is inactive
- Keep self-attested photocopies of all documents
Step-by-Step Registration Process
The registration for PM Vishwakarma Yojana is done exclusively through Common Service Centres (CSCs). You cannot apply directly online from home. Here is the complete process:
Step 1: Locate Your Nearest CSC
- Find your nearest CSC using the CSC locator at csc.gov.in
- Over 4 lakh CSCs operate across India, so there should be one near you
- Carry all documents listed in the previous section
Step 2: CSC Operator Login
- The CSC operator will log in to the PM Vishwakarma portal
- Select “CSC – Register Artisans” option under the login menu
- Enter their CSC credentials to access the registration system
Step 3: Mobile Verification and e-KYC
- Provide your mobile number for OTP verification
- Complete Aadhaar e-KYC using biometric authentication (fingerprint or iris scan)
- This step is mandatory and cannot be skipped
Step 4: Fill the Artisan Registration Form
- The CSC operator will fill in your personal details:
- Full name, father’s/spouse’s name, date of birth
- Address and contact details
- Trade details and years of experience
- Family details (to check one-per-family rule)
- Review all details carefully before submission
Step 5: Udyam Assist Platform Registration
- The CSC operator will also register you on the Udyam Assist Platform
- This gives you formal recognition as an MSME entrepreneur
- It is a mandatory step linked to the PM Vishwakarma registration
Step 6: Three-Tier Verification Process
Your application goes through three levels of verification:
| Tier | Authority | What They Verify | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Gram Panchayat / ULB | Residence, trade practice, family status | 15-45 days |
| Tier 2 | District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) | Document scrutiny, random verification | 30-90 days |
| Tier 3 | State Level Monitoring Committee (SLMC) | Final approval and enrollment | 60-180 days |
Step 7: Download Certificate and ID Card
- Once approved, log in to pmvishwakarma.gov.in
- Download your PM Vishwakarma Digital Certificate and PM Vishwakarma ID Card
- You will receive a unique 12-digit Vishwakarma ID
Step 8: Apply for Benefits
- Use your registered credentials to apply for:
- Basic skill training
- Toolkit e-voucher
- Enterprise development loan
Skill Training and Stipend Details
One of the most valuable components of this scheme is the structured skill training program designed to modernize artisan capabilities.
Basic Skill Training:
- Duration: 5-7 days (40 hours total)
- Stipend: ₹500 per day credited via DBT to your Aadhaar-linked bank account
- Total Stipend: ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 for basic training
- Content Covered:
- Trade-specific skill upgradation
- Financial literacy and bookkeeping
- Digital payment awareness (UPI, QR codes)
- GST basics and compliance
- E-marketplace onboarding (GeM, ONDC, Amazon, Flipkart)
- Quality standards and certification
- Brand building and packaging
Advanced Skill Training:
- Duration: 15 days or more
- Stipend: ₹500 per day (total ₹7,500+)
- Eligibility: Offered to select beneficiaries who complete basic training
- Focus: Specialized techniques, design development, advanced tool usage
Training Logistics:
- Training is conducted at designated MSME-DI centers or vocational training institutes
- Board and lodging are provided free of charge during training
- Training completion is mandatory before you can claim the toolkit voucher or apply for the loan
- You will receive an SMS with training schedule and venue details
Toolkit Incentive of ₹15,000 Explained
The toolkit incentive is a unique feature that ensures artisans get modern equipment without spending their own money.
What is the Toolkit E-Voucher:
- A digital e-RUPI voucher worth ₹15,000
- Sent to your registered mobile number after completing basic training
- Non-transferable and non-encashable — can only be used for purchasing tools
- Valid for 1 year from the date of issue
How to Redeem the Voucher:
- You receive a list of scheme-empanelled vendors (GeM-registered suppliers)
- Visit the vendor with your Vishwakarma ID and the e-voucher
- Select trade-relevant tools and equipment
- The vendor scans your e-voucher and deducts the amount
- You get the tools immediately
Examples of Toolkit Purchases by Trade:
| Trade | Typical Tools Purchased |
|---|---|
| Tailor (Darzi) | Industrial sewing machine, overlock machine, buttonhole machine |
| Blacksmith (Lohar) | Power hammer, anvil, tongs, grinding machine |
| Potter (Kumhaar) | Electric pottery wheel, clay mixer, kiln accessories |
| Carpenter (Suthar) | Power drill, circular saw, planer, measuring tools |
| Goldsmith (Sonar) | Polishing motor, precision tools, melting furnace |
| Barber (Naai) | Professional hair clipper, trimmer, styling tools, sterilizer |
| Mason (Rajmistri) | Power trowel, vibrator, leveling tools, safety gear |
| Cobbler (Charmakar) | Sewing machine for leather, cutting tools, polish materials |
Important Notes:
- The voucher cannot be converted to cash
- If not redeemed within 1 year, it may lapse (reissue is discretionary and slow)
- Choose tools that genuinely improve your productivity and product quality
Loan Details: ₹3 Lakh Collateral-Free Credit
The credit support under PM Vishwakarma is designed to help artisans expand their business without the burden of collateral or high interest rates.
Loan Structure:
| Parameter | First Tranche | Second Tranche |
|---|---|---|
| Loan Amount | Up to ₹1,00,000 | Up to ₹2,00,000 |
| Repayment Period | 18 months | 30 months |
| Interest Rate (Effective) | 5% per annum | 5% per annum |
| Interest Subvention | Up to 8% by GoI | Up to 8% by GoI |
| Collateral Required | None (CGTMSE-backed) | None (CGTMSE-backed) |
| Eligibility | After basic training | After first tranche repayment + digital transactions |
How the Interest Subvention Works:
- Banks charge the market rate (around 8-13%)
- The government pays the difference directly to the bank
- You pay only 5% effective interest
- Credit Guarantee fees are also borne by the government
Loan Application Process:
- Apply through any scheduled commercial bank, RRB, SFB, NBFC-MFI, or co-operative bank empanelled under the scheme
- Submit your Vishwakarma certificate, ID card, and training completion proof
- Provide 6 months of bank statements and workshop photos
- The bank verifies and sanctions the loan
- Amount is credited to your account
Conditions for Second Tranche:
- You must fully repay the first tranche
- Your loan account must be in standard condition (no defaults)
- You must have adopted digital transactions in your business
- OR you must have completed advanced training
- Minimum 6 months must pass after first tranche disbursement
Marketing Support and Digital Transaction Incentives
Beyond training and loans, the scheme provides robust support for market access and digital integration.
Marketing Support by National Committee for Marketing (NCM):
- Physical and Online Presence: Help in creating websites and social media profiles
- Brand Building: Logo design, packaging development, and label creation
- E-Commerce Onboarding: Listing products on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, GeM, and ONDC
- Trade Fair Participation: Sponsored stalls at national and international trade fairs
- Export Linkages: Connections with export houses and international buyers
- Quality Certification: Reimbursement for obtaining BIS or other quality certifications
- Product Design Development: Access to design experts for product innovation
Digital Transaction Incentive:
- ₹1 per eligible digital transaction
- Maximum 100 transactions per month
- Credited to your Aadhaar-linked bank account through APBS (Aadhaar Payment Bridge System)
- This encourages artisans to adopt UPI and other digital payment methods
- Monthly maximum incentive: ₹100
- Annual maximum incentive: ₹1,200
Why Digital Integration Matters:
- Reduces dependency on cash transactions
- Creates a digital footprint for future credit access
- Enables e-commerce sales
- Builds financial discipline and transparency
- Aligns with India’s Digital India vision
Latest Achievements and Updates (2026)
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana has shown remarkable growth since its launch. Here are the latest achievements as of 2026:
Registration and Training Milestones:
- 30 lakh artisans successfully registered by September 2025 (target achieved 3 years early)
- 23.99 lakh applicants completed basic training as of April 2026
- 15.95 lakh beneficiaries received modern toolkits
- 26.87 lakh beneficiaries registered as of January 2025
Loan and Financial Support:
- 5.93 lakh loan applications sanctioned
- ₹5,083.76 crore total loans sanctioned
- 7.80 lakh beneficiaries received digital incentives worth ₹33.15 crore
Recent Developments in 2026:
- April 2026: Over 2,500 beneficiaries trained in Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance business capabilities
- January 2026: PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 organized at Dilli Haat, New Delhi, featuring 117+ artisans from across India
- New Phase Launch: Enhanced marketing support with IIM-led market research and expanded e-commerce promotion
- Target Expansion: Government aiming for 61 lakh artisans including women and SC/ST/OBC communities to attain self-employment
Budget Allocation (Year-wise):
| Financial Year | Budget Allocated (₹ Crore) |
|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 1,860 |
| 2024-25 | 4,824 |
| 2025-26 | 3,009 |
| 2026-27 | 1,619 |
| 2027-28 | 1,224 |
| 2028-29 | 342 |
| 2029-30 | 103 |
| 2030-31 | 19 |
| Total | 13,000 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application
Many eligible artisans face delays or rejections due to avoidable errors. Here is what to watch out for:
- Inactive Aadhaar Mobile Number: Biometric e-KYC fails if your mobile is not linked or active. Update it at the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra before applying.
- Name Mismatch Between Aadhaar and Bank Account: The toolkit voucher and stipend will not credit if names don’t match exactly. Get your bank KYC updated.
- Trade Declaration Mismatch: If you declare “blacksmith” but have no anvil or tools during the panchayat visit, your application will be rejected. Keep your tools visible.
- Family Already Enrolled: Only one member per family can apply. Check if your spouse or parent has already enrolled before applying.
- Recent Loan from Similar Scheme: If you or your spouse took a MUDRA, PMEGP, or SVANidhi loan in the last 5 years, the system will auto-reject. Wait for the cooling period.
- Government Employee in Family: Even contract employees on government rolls make the entire family ineligible.
- Paying Excessive CSC Charges: The official cap is ₹25-50. Report overcharging to 1800-3000-3468.
- Not Attending Training: Basic training is mandatory for both toolkit and loan. Skipping it means losing both benefits.
- Letting Voucher Lapse: The ₹15,000 e-voucher expires in 1 year. Redeem it promptly.
- Ignoring Follow-ups: If your file is stuck at DLIC for over 60 days, visit the District Industries Centre GM in person with your enrollment number.
Important Links and Official Resources
Here are the official links and resources you need to register for and track your PM Vishwakarma Yojana application:
| Resource | Link / Details |
|---|---|
| Official PM Vishwakarma Portal | pmvishwakarma.gov.in |
| CSC Locator (Find Nearest Centre) | csc.gov.in |
| Ministry of MSME Official Website | msme.gov.in |
| NSDC PM Vishwakarma Page | nsdcindia.org/pmvishwakarma.html |
| MyScheme Government Portal | myscheme.gov.in/schemes/pmv |
| Udyam Registration Portal | udyamregistration.gov.in |
| GeM Portal (For Vendors) | gem.gov.in |
| Toll-Free Helpline | 1800-267-7777 |
| Alternate Helpline | 17923 |
| CSC Complaint Number | 1800-3000-3468 |
| CPGRAMS (For Complaints) | pgportal.gov.in |
Official PDFs and Notifications:
- PM Vishwakarma Scheme Implementation Guidelines and Operations Manual
- List of 18 Trades Under PM Vishwakarma Scheme (Official NSDC Document)
- Toolkit Specifications for Each Trade
- Credit Guarantee and Interest Subvention Guidelines
- National Committee for Marketing (NCM) Operational Framework
- District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) Formation Guidelines
- State Level Monitoring Committee (SLMC) Terms of Reference
How to Access These Documents:
- Visit the official PM Vishwakarma portal and navigate to the “Downloads” or “Resources” section
- Contact your nearest District Industries Centre (DIC) for printed copies
- The NSDC website hosts the complete trade list and toolkit specifications
- For scheme guidelines, write to the Ministry of MSME or file an RTI application
State-wise DIC Contact Information:
- Each district in India has a designated District Industries Centre
- Visit dic.nic.in or search “DIC [Your District Name]” for contact details
- The DIC General Manager is the key contact for application status and escalation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for PM Vishwakarma Yojana from home without visiting a CSC?
No. The registration process requires biometric e-KYC which can only be done at a Common Service Centre (CSC). You cannot complete the application from home. Visit your nearest CSC with your documents.
Q2: I am a tailor but also do embroidery work. Can I register under two trades?
No. The scheme allows enrollment under only one primary trade. You must choose the trade that represents your main source of income and matches the tools you have at your workshop.
Q3: I took a MUDRA loan in 2021. Can I apply now in 2026?
Yes. The 5-year cooling period from 2021 would expire in 2026. However, confirm your eligibility at the CSC by checking your CIBIL or portal status before applying, as the calculation is from the loan sanction date.
Q4: Is the ₹15,000 toolkit amount given in cash or as a voucher?
It is given as an e-RUPI digital voucher only, not cash. You can redeem it at scheme-empanelled vendors for purchasing trade-specific tools and equipment. It cannot be encashed.
Q5: Can I get the ₹1 lakh loan without attending the training?
No. Basic skill training completion is mandatory before you can claim both the toolkit voucher and the enterprise loan. The training is free and you earn a ₹500/day stipend.
Q6: What happens if my application is stuck at the District Level for months?
If your file remains pending at the District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) for over 60 days, visit the District Industries Centre (DIC) General Manager in person with your enrollment number. You can also file an RTI application for ₹10.
Q7: Are women artisans eligible for additional benefits?
While the scheme does not have separate quotas, it specifically targets women artisans and those from SC/ST/OBC communities. The overall scheme aims to benefit 61 lakh artisans including a significant number of women.
Q8: Can government employees’ family members apply?
No. If any member of your immediate family (spouse or unmarried children) is employed in Central or State government service, including PSUs and contract government roles, the entire family is ineligible.
Q9: What is the last date to apply for PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
The scheme is currently running until FY 2027-28. There is no specific last date for individual applications, but it is advisable to apply as soon as possible since the scheme has a fixed budget and beneficiary target.
Q10: How can I check my application status?
Visit pmvishwakarma.gov.in, click on beneficiary login, enter your registered mobile number, captcha code, and the OTP received. Once logged in, click on “Payment Status” or “Application Status” from your dashboard to track progress.