Why in News? 

Ministry of MSME organized ‘PM Vishwakarma and National SC-ST Hub Mega Conclave’ in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. 

• Central Sector Scheme (FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28): Launched on 17th Sept 2023; supports traditional artisans and craftspeople in manual and tool-based work. 
• Implementation: Ministries of MSME, Skill Development, and Finance. 
• Eligibility: Must be artisans or craftspersons in 18 traditional trades, self-employed, 18+, actively working. Excludes those who’ve availed similar loans in last 5 years. 
  • Includes Carpenter, Boat Maker, Armourer, Blacksmith, Locksmith, Goldsmith, Potter, etc. 
• Benefits: 
  • Recognition: Artisans receive PM Vishwakarma certificates and ID cards. 
  • Skill Upgradation: ₹500/ day stipend for training on modern tools & machinery. 
  • Toolkit Incentive: ₹15,000 e-voucher for purchasing quality tools. 
  • Credit Support: Collateral-free ‘Enterprise Development Loans’. 
  • Digital Transaction Incentive: ₹1 per digital transaction (up to 100/month). 
  • Marketing Support: Quality certification and e-commerce platforms like GeM. 
  • Entrepreneur Registration: Helps with registering on Udyam Assist Platform. 
• Achievements (Over 2 Years): 23 lakh received free skill training, ₹4,100 crore in collateral-free loans disbursed.