455/2025-2026

20th January, 2026 : An awareness programme on the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Scheme was held today at Pisapui Hall, Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Serchhip. Deputy Commissioner Pu Paul L. Khuma attended the programme as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, DC Pu Paul L. Khuma stated that God has endowed human beings with unique talents and skills, and the PM Vishwakarma Scheme has been designed to enable people to earn a better livelihood by utilising their God-given craftsmanship. He observed that in today’s rapidly changing world, there is a growing appreciation for locally produced, traditional crafts grounded in culture and tradition, as opposed to reliance on externally sourced products. He emphasised the need for individuals to become more self-reliant and to further develop their skills in order to secure sustainable livelihoods.

The Deputy Commissioner also urged participants to spread awareness about the scheme among their friends and others engaged in similar trades. Speaking on the issue of loans, he advised beneficiaries to repay loans obtained under government schemes sincerely and on time, cautioning that failure to do so could adversely affect not only their own future loan prospects but also those of others.

Pu Samrat M. Jha, Assistant Director Grade-I (in-charge), Branch MSME, Mizoram State, delivered the welcome address and explained the objectives of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. He highlighted that the scheme aims to support India’s traditional artisans and craftspeople by enabling them to use their age-old skills as viable means of livelihood and to improve their socio-economic conditions.

Others who spoke during the programme included Pu Lalnghawrliana, Lead District Manager; Pi Zirthangpuii, Domain Expert, PM Vishwakarma, Serchhip District; Pu Lalhmangaihtluanga, District Level Resource Person (DLRP), Serchhip District Commerce & Industries; and Pi Vanlalmawii, Executive, India Posts Payment Bank (IPPB).

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme implemented under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), and Department of Financial Services (DFS). In Mizoram, the scheme is implemented by the Department of Commerce & Industries.

Under the scheme, one eligible member from a non-government employed family, aged 18 years and above and possessing traditional skills, can register. The scheme is not meant for learning new trades, but is specifically designed for those already skilled in any of the 18 traditional trades recognised by the Central Government. Registered beneficiaries are provided with skill upgradation training, support for improved livelihood opportunities, exposure to digital marketing, and financial literacy training. They are also eligible for low-interest loans up to ₹3 lakh and are provided essential toolkits, such as masonry tools, free of cost.