Union MoS Dr Balyan launches PM Vishwakarma scheme in Nagaland

Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 18

Nagaland today joined the rest of the country in launching PM Vishwakarma Scheme in the presence of Dr Sanjeev Kumar Balyan, Union Minister of State (MoS) for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying at Hotel De Oriental Grand, Kohima.

‘Through the Scheme, we are providing avenues for skills development and entrepreneurship, fostering innovation and creativity, and ultimately ensuring a better livelihood for our citizens,” Dr Balyan said, while addressing the launching programme on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti.

The scheme is going to transform the lives of the artisans and workers, he added.

A brainchild of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Scheme embodies the unwavering commitment of the present government to empower our skilled workforce and propel India towards a brighter and more prosperous future, the MoS maintained.

“This initiative aims to harness the boundless potential of our workforce, especially those engaged in the informal sector, but have traditional rich talent and provide them with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving global landscape,” he stressed. 

The Scheme is the key to unlock the nation’s skill diversity potential, he added.

Naga artisans urged to avail financial support
Stating that Nagas have the history of making their own tools and equipment- dao, speakers, necklace, tattoos, weaving, traditional dolls, bangles etc, Dr Balyan informed that they can avail the financial support for better tools and method under the scheme. 

Traditionally, Nagas have been making their own houses; with these skills, local builders and artisans would be promoted under the scheme. This scheme which is being launched for 18 trades will enable the local people of Nagaland tech-savy and global, he said. 

‘Our skilled workforce, our rich cultural heritage, and our unwavering spirit are our greatest assets’ and the Scheme is not just a government programme but “a movement that is bringing about a sea change in the lives of our citizens,” he asserted.

Skill development
The cornerstone of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is the commitment to enhancing the skills of the workforce, Dr Balyan said.

“We understand that in today’s rapidly changing job market, staying relevant and competitive requires continuous learning and skill development. Therefore, we have established a network of training centres across the country, offering specialised courses that cater to the diverse needs of various industries,” he elaborated. 

Besides covering a wide range of skills, from traditional crafts and trades to modern technology-driven sectors, it is additionally aimed at equipping workforce is to adapt to new technologies and market trends, he added. 

There is a provision to impart basic training of 40 hours under the scheme with a stipend of Rs 500 per day and a tool kit of Rs 15,000 shall be provided in the form of grant.

Access to Finance
The Scheme provides simplified access to credit and financial support as their accessibility often act as major barrier for individuals looking to start their own businesses or expand existing ones. .

“We will partner with financial institutions to offer low-interest loans and grants to eligible individuals and businesses,” Dr Balyan said.

This support is not just about providing capital but empowering individuals to turn their ideas into reality, he asserted. 

“Collateral free loan of Rs 1 lakh in the first trench and of Rs 2 lakhs shall be provided in the second trench at 5% of interest with interest subvention cap of 8% to be paid by MoMSME and Credit Guarantee fee shall be borne by Gol,” he informed.

Technology adoption
The Scheme places a strong emphasis on encouraging the adoption of modern technology and digital tools, recognising these as a driving force behind economic growth and innovation, Dr Balyan maintained. 

Training and capacity building aimed at helping individuals and businesses embrace technology and leverage it to their advantage are also included in the Scheme. 

From e-commerce platforms for artisans to digital marketing strategies for small businesses, our goal is to ensure that our workforce remains competitive in the digital era, he said.

“The traditional craftsmen from Nagaland and all states would be able to showcase their products to a global audience on digital platforms at Rs 1 per digital transactions. The power of technology has notonly expanded their reach but also increased their income significantly,” he highlighted.  

Market linkages
The Scheme will also help in establishing robust market linkages to connect the skilled workers with both domestic and international markets as they are crucial for the success of any businesses, Dr Balyan said.

It would also facilitate the artisans through trade fairs, exhibitions, and online platforms to showcase their products to a wide audience.

“This initiative will not only boost the income of our skilled workforce but will also promote the rich cultural heritage of all states on a global stage,” he said adding that a National Committee for Marketing (NCM) will provide services such as Quality Certification, Branding & Promotion, E- commerce linkage, Trade Fairs advertising, publicity and other marketing activities.

Social security
Believing that economic empowerment should be accompanied by social security, the Scheme ensures the well-being and financial security of our workforce by providing access to social security schemes, the MoS noted. 

From healthcare to insurance, we are committed to safeguarding the interests of our skilled workers and their families, he assured.

Stating that Government of India is deeply committed to uplifting the lives of the people and ensuring development for all,  Dr Balyan urged the people to explore the opportunities which will be unlocked by the new Scheme.

“Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient and prosperous India,” he said.

Moatoshi Longkumer, Advisor Labour, Employment & Skill development and K Kevichusa, Commissioner & Secretary for Industries & Commerce, Nagaland also spoke at the launching programme.

The launching programme in Kohima also witnessed the live stream of the nationwide formal launching programme of the Scheme by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from New Delhi.

Mentionably, an outlay of Rs. 13,000 crore has been provided for PM Vishwakarma scheme in the country.