Introduction
India has a rich tradition of skilled artisans, craftsmen, and workers who form the backbone of rural and semi-urban economies. Carpenters, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, sculptors, masons, barbers, washermen, cobblers, and weavers represent not only occupations but centuries-old cultural heritage. However, due to industrialization, modernization, and lack of formal recognition, these communities often face economic challenges and limited opportunities.
To uplift such traditional artisans, the Government of India launched the “Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana (PM Vishwakarma)” in September 2023. One of the core benefits under this scheme is the PM Vishwakarma Toolkit, a specially designed support kit that provides modern tools, equipment, and training to artisans. This toolkit empowers skilled workers to upgrade their craft, improve productivity, and increase income while preserving India’s cultural heritage.
1. Background of the Scheme
1.1 Traditional Artisan Economy in India
For centuries, artisans played a crucial role in India’s economy. Metalworkers forged agricultural tools, carpenters built furniture and houses, goldsmiths created jewelry, potters made utensils, and weavers crafted textiles. These skills were passed down through generations, making them community identities.
However, with mass production, machine-made goods, and lack of financial access, these workers were left behind. Most artisans work in the unorganized sector, earning irregular incomes and struggling with limited access to modern markets.
1.2 Need for Government Intervention
The government recognized that:
- Artisans are guardians of India’s cultural and traditional knowledge.
- They require modern tools and training to compete with industrial products.
- Financial aid and market support are needed to improve livelihoods.
Thus, the PM Vishwakarma Yojana was launched, and the Toolkit Component became a vital part of this mission.
2. Objectives of the PM Vishwakarma Toolkit Scheme
- Skill Enhancement – Equip artisans with modern tools while preserving traditional methods.
- Financial Inclusion – Provide access to loans and subsidies for purchasing toolkits.
- Market Competitiveness – Help artisans produce high-quality products that meet modern standards.
- Cultural Preservation – Protect ancient crafts and traditions for future generations.
- Livelihood Support – Increase productivity and income levels of artisans.
- Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) – Encourage small artisans to become self-employed entrepreneurs.
3. Key Features of PM Vishwakarma Toolkit
- Free Toolkit Distribution: Every registered beneficiary gets a toolkit suitable for their specific trade.
- Training & Certification: Training is provided on how to use the modern toolkit effectively.
- Tool Upgrade Facility: Existing artisans can upgrade old tools with government support.
- Cash Incentives: Support for working capital, marketing, and digital transactions.
- Digital Empowerment: Integration with Digital India initiatives for online transactions and e-market access.
- Multi-Trade Coverage: 18 trades (like carpentry, pottery, tailoring, goldsmithing, blacksmithing, etc.) are covered.
4. Eligibility Criteria
To receive the PM Vishwakarma Toolkit, artisans must meet the following:
- Occupation Requirement – Must belong to one of the 18 recognized artisan trades.
- Age Limit – Must be at least 18 years old.
- Employment Status – Should be engaged in the trade as a primary source of livelihood.
- Family Rule – Only one member per family is eligible.
- No Government Job – Family members should not be employed in government service.
- Aadhar & Bank Account – Must have an Aadhar card linked with a bank account.
5. List of Trades Covered
The PM Vishwakarma Toolkit supports 18 traditional trades:
- Carpenter (Suthar)
- Boat Maker
- Armourer
- Blacksmith (Lohar)
- Hammer & Tool Kit Maker
- Locksmith
- Goldsmith (Sunar)
- Potter (Kumhar)
- Sculptor/Stone Carver (Moortikar)
- Cobbler/Shoemaker (Charmakar)
- Mason (Rajmistri)
- Basket/Mat/Broom Maker/Coir Weaver
- Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional)
- Barber (Naai)
- Garland Maker (Maalakaar)
- Washerman (Dhobi)
- Tailor (Darzi)
- Fishing Net Maker
6. Toolkit Components
Each toolkit is trade-specific. For example:
- Carpenter Toolkit: Saw, drill machine, planer, hammer, measuring tape, chisel set.
- Potter Toolkit: Electric potter wheel, clay mixer, shaping tools.
- Goldsmith Toolkit: Melting furnace, precision scale, polishing kit.
- Tailor Toolkit: Modern sewing machine, embroidery kit, cutting tools.
- Blacksmith Toolkit: Electric welding machine, hammer set, safety gear.
7. Benefits of PM Vishwakarma Toolkit
7.1 Direct Benefits
- Free/affordable modern toolkits.
- Training in new techniques.
- Improved product quality.
- Higher production capacity.
7.2 Financial Benefits
- Loan up to ₹3 lakh in two tranches (₹1 lakh + ₹2 lakh).
- Subsidy on interest (5% only, government bears rest).
- ₹500 per day stipend during training.
7.3 Social Benefits
- Recognition of artisans as “Vishwakarmas of India”.
- Increased self-respect in society.
- Improved standard of living.
8. Application Process
Step 1: Online Registration
- Visit official portal: https://pmvishwakarma.gov.in
- Click on Apply Online.
- Fill in Aadhar, occupation, and family details.
Step 2: Verification
- Local authority verifies details.
- Occupation proof is required.
Step 3: Training & Toolkit Distribution
- Applicant is enrolled in skill training.
- Toolkit is distributed after certification.
9. Implementation Mechanism
- Nodal Ministry – Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME).
- Implementation Agencies – State Governments, District Industries Centres (DICs), KVIC, Skill India Mission.
- Monitoring – Aadhaar-linked beneficiary database ensures transparency.
10. Budget & Financial Allocation
- Total outlay: ₹13,000 crore (2023–24 to 2027–28).
- Toolkit distribution and training form a significant part.
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) ensures funds go directly to beneficiaries.
11. Impact of the Toolkit Scheme
- Economic Impact – Increased artisan income by 30–50%.
- Skill Upgradation – Modern techniques lead to better products.
- Cultural Preservation – Handicrafts gain recognition.
- Employment Generation – Encourages self-employment.
12. Challenges Faced
- Low awareness in rural areas.
- Difficulty in proving occupation.
- Limited training centers in remote regions.
- Digital illiteracy among artisans.
13. Government’s Efforts to Overcome Challenges
- Awareness Campaigns – Through Gram Sabhas and Panchayats.
- Mobile Training Units – For remote villages.
- Common Facility Centers (CFCs) – Shared tool hubs for artisans.
- Digital Seva Kendras – Assistance for online applications.
14. Future Prospects
- Expansion to more trades beyond 18.
- Integration with e-commerce platforms like GeM, Amazon Karigar.
- Export promotion for artisan products.
- Linking toolkits with Smart Manufacturing Technology.
15. Success Stories
- A carpenter in Uttar Pradesh increased income 3x after receiving a power toolkit.
- A potter in Rajasthan started supplying modern clay utensils to hotels after training.
- A tailor in Karnataka used the sewing machine toolkit to start a boutique.
16. Comparison with Other Schemes
- PMEGP – Focuses on entrepreneurship loans, while Vishwakarma focuses on artisans.
- Skill India – Provides training but not toolkits.
- Mudra Loan – General loans for small businesses, not trade-specific.
17. Step-by-Step Guide for Applicants
- Gather documents: Aadhar, bank passbook, caste certificate (if applicable), occupation proof.
- Register on portal or visit CSC.
- Submit application.
- Attend verification camp.
- Get approval SMS/email.
- Receive training + toolkit.
18. Documents Required
- Aadhar Card
- Bank Passbook
- Mobile Number linked to Aadhar
- Occupation Proof (Self-declaration, Panchayat certificate, etc.)
- Passport-size photo
19. FAQs
Q1: Is the toolkit free of cost?
Yes, toolkits are distributed free or at highly subsidized rates.
Q2: Can two family members apply?
No, only one beneficiary per family is allowed.
Q3: What is the maximum loan amount under this scheme?
₹3 lakh in two phases.
Q4: How long is the training period?
Usually 5–15 days depending on trade.
Q5: Can urban artisans apply?
Yes, but preference is given to rural and semi-urban areas.
Conclusion
The PM Vishwakarma Toolkit Scheme is more than just a distribution program—it is a movement to empower artisans, protect traditional skills, and modernize India’s rural economy. By providing financial support, training, and modern toolkits, this scheme ensures artisans can compete in today’s competitive market while preserving cultural heritage.
