343/2024-2025

AIZAWL, the 28^th November,2024 : A three-day (28-30/11/2024) Exhibition cum-Trade Fair is being organized for PM Vishwakarma beneficiaries by Br. MSME Development & Facilitation Office, Aizawl working under the Ministry of MSME, Government of India in collaboration with the Commerce & Industries Department, Government of Mizoram at Assam Rifle Ground, Aizawl. Pu F. Rodingliana, Hon'ble Minister of State, Department of Commerce & Industries, Power & Electricity, and Printing & Stationery, Government of Mizoram, graced the occasion as the chief guest and inaugurated the Exhibition-cum-Trade Fair. Pi Teresy Vanlahruaii, Secretary, LAD and Er.Lalhriatpuia, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Aizawl  also attended the programme as the guests of honour and both delivered speeches as well.

Pu F. Rodingliana's inaugural speech highlighted a crucial aspect of Mizoram's industrial development. For 22 years, the state had an Industrial Policy, but it lacked a budget allocation to ensure its success. In contrast, the current government has allocated a substantial amount of funds, enabling 45 individuals to secure loans this year alone.

To further support local artisans, the government has established Preferential Purchase Rules, allowing them to market their products at more competitive prices.  Pu Rodingliana emphasized that a well-crafted industrial policy is vital for success, regardless of hard work. The current government prioritizes policy formulation above all else.

A significant oversight in previous governments' industrial policies was the omission of work shed construction. As a result, industrialists were unable to access financial assistance for building work sheds, despite allocating a substantial portion of their loans for this purpose. The forthcoming Mizoram Industrial Policy addresses this issue by incorporating work sheds, enabling industrialists to receive assistance for construction.

The Minister expressed gratitude to officials and participants for the smooth execution of the event and wished them best of luck in their endeavours.

The main objective of the program is to strengthen the traditional artisans and craftsmen working in rural and urban areas from a technical, economic and marketing point of view. The selected beneficiaries working under 18 Trades under PM Vishwakarma Scheme (Carpenters, Goldsmiths, Doll and Toy makers, Boat Makers, Potters, Fishing Net Makers, Bead Makers, Blacksmiths, Sculptors (stone carvers), Washermen, Masons,Cobblers/shoe artisans, barbers, tailors, locksmiths) (Weavers, weapon makers, hammer, Tool Kit makers and basket/mat/broom makers), will be able to get skill training and honorarium of Rs 3000/-, tool-kit up to Rs 15000/- and a total of Rs 3 lakh (Rs 1 lakh and 2 lakhs respectively) as loan at 5% concessional interest rate.

In this exhibition, various offices related to the scheme like: Bank, National Small Industries Corporation, Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Common Service Center (CSC), GeM, RDSDE etc. will provide detailed information about the schemes and facilities provided by their respective departments. To avail the benefits of PM Vishwakarma Scheme, new candidates can  register themselves at the stall of the Common Service Centre (CSC).

Pi Anusha Ghosh, Senior Consultant of the National IMU Ministry of MSME, presented a report on the progress made under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. Additionally, Pi Pinky Zosangpuii, Joint Secretary of ICT, provided insights on the implementation of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme under the MSME Cell and explained the scheme's details.

Pu Diwakar I.E.D.S, Asst.Director, Br.MSME-DFO,Aizawl concluded the inaugural function with a proposal of vote of thanks.