PM Vishwakarma Yojana: Zunheboto Artisans Urged to Register for Benefits
Zunheboto’s traditional craftsmen are being called upon to enrol in the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, a flagship programme that promises tool‑kit subsidies, low‑interest credit, health insurance and market linkage. With the registration window open until 31 December 2024, local officials estimate that over 2,500 artisans in the district could unlock up to INR 15,000 in tool support and INR 1 lakh of credit at 4 % interest. Eligible participants can apply online through the official portal PM Vishwakarma Scheme and receive benefits within two weeks of verification.
What is the PM Vishwakarma Yojana?
Launched by the Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in September 2023, the scheme is named after the ancient deity of craftsmanship. It targets all “Vishwakarma” categories — metal‑workers, weavers, potters, carpenters and other skilled artisans — who derive their primary livelihood from traditional crafts. The initiative aligns with the broader national goal of preserving heritage while integrating artisans into the formal economy. For a detailed overview, see the Wikipedia entry on Vishwakarma and the Ministry’s official page.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility and Registration Steps
Eligibility is straightforward: applicants must be Indian citizens, possess a valid Aadhaar card, and be recognized as a traditional artisan by the state’s Arts & Crafts Department. A brief portfolio of recent work and a declaration of non‑employment in any formal sector are mandatory. Registration is completed on the PM Vishwakarma portal where users upload documents, receive an acknowledgement number, and undergo a physical verification visit if required. Once approved, the subsidy is credited directly to the applicant’s bank account and a credit line of up to INR 1 lakh becomes active. 
Key Documents:
- Aadhaar card
- Proof of artisan status (certificate from District Arts & Crafts Office)
- Portfolio of crafted items (images or PDF)
- Bank account details
Financial and Non‑Financial Benefits
Beneficiaries gain a suite of support mechanisms:
- Tool‑kit subsidy: Up to INR 15,000 for new equipment.
- Concessional credit: Up to INR 1 lakh at 4 % interest, repayable over five years.
- Health insurance: Coverage of INR 5 lakh per annum under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.
- Pension scheme: Monthly stipend after age 60.
- Market linkage: Access to a national digital marketplace to reach wider customers.
These provisions are designed to reduce production costs, improve product quality and safeguard artisans against health and old‑age risks.
Local Response and Economic Impact in Zunheboto
The Zunheboto District Administration, in partnership with the Nagaland State Arts & Crafts Board, has organized a series of awareness camps across the district’s sub‑division headquarters. Recent workshops held in Peren and Tuensang attracted more than 300 participants, where officials demonstrated the online application flow and answered eligibility queries. Collector Dr. Neiphiu Rio emphasized that “empowering our artisans not only preserves our cultural legacy but also creates jobs for youth and stimulates rural entrepreneurship.” Early data from the first quarter of 2024 indicate that 1,200 applications have been submitted, with an expected rise to 2,500 by year‑end, potentially injecting over INR 30 crore into the local economy through increased production and export.
Stay updated with the latest Yojana schemes and government initiatives for better awareness and eligibility. For personalized guidance on accessing these benefits, reach out to us.
