Bengal begins rollout of PM Vishwakarma scheme for artisans

Kolkata: The state govt has initiated the process of implementing the Centre's PM Vishwakarma Yojana in Bengal, aimed at improving the socio-economic condition of traditional artisans and craftspeople. The move comes days after chief minister Suvendu Adhikari alleged that the previous Trinamool Congress govt had "deliberately" prevented the implementation of the scheme in the state, and said the govt would formally approach the Union MSME ministry to facilitate its rollout.Accordingly, a high-level meeting was held on Friday, attended by Dr Rajneesh, additional secretary and development commissioner of the Union MSME ministry, and state chief secretary Manoj Agarwal. The meeting was focused on identifying genuine traditional artisans, particularly in rural and marginal areas, and strengthening mechanisms for skill development and training, sources said.The interaction also focused on the implementation of other MSME schemes in the state and strategies for strengthening the MSME ecosystem through enhanced coordination and institutional support. Officials said the state govt has recently issued notifications constituting a State Monitoring Committee, and District Implementation Committees in all districts to oversee implementation of the scheme. Administrative preparations are now underway to ensure that the benefits reach eligible beneficiaries at the grassroots level.The PM Vishwakarma Yojana was launched by the Union MSME ministry in Sept 2023 to provide financial assistance, skill training and institutional support to traditional artisans and craftspeople engaged in occupations such as blacksmithing, pottery, carpentry and weaving.