Vishwakarma scheme will enable Naga artisans to be tech-savvy: MoS Balyan

KOHIMA — Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan, on Sunday said that the PM Vishwakarma scheme will enable the artisans and builders of Nagaland to be tech-savvy and go global.

The Minister of State was addressing the online launching programme of the PM Vishwakarma scheme, which was formally launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Sunday, at Hotel De Oriental Grand in Kohima.

Balyan observed that Nagas have the history of making their own equipment and tools including ‘dao,’ speakers, necklace, tattoos, weavings, traditional dolls and bangles. Under the scheme, the traditional artisans can avail the financial support to upgrade their tools and methods, which will help them to save time and also improve the quality of their works.

“Traditionally, Nagas have been making their own houses; with these skills local builders and artisans would be promoted under the scheme. This scheme, which is being launched for 18 trades, will enable the local people of Nagaland tech-savvy and global. Our skilled workforce, our rich cultural heritage and our unwavering spirit are our greatest assets,” he said.

The minister went on to say that the new scheme will provide skill development and ensure that the workforce is well-equipped to adapt to new technologies and market trends.

Under the scheme, there is a provision to impart basic training of 40 hours, a stipend of INR 500 per day and a tool kit worth INR 15,000, in the form of a grant, he said.

The scheme will also provide simplified access to credit and financial support, so as to help individuals looking to start their own businesses or expand existing ones.

The artisans can take advantage of these financial opportunities to start innovative ventures, which not only create jobs but also contribute to the economic growth of the region, Balyan said.

The minister also informed that the collateral free loan of INR 1 lakh in the first trench and INR 2 lakh (second tranche), will be provided at 5% of interest with interest subvention cap of 8% to be paid by MoMSME and credit guarantee borne free by Gol.

The scheme also lays emphasis on adoption of modern technology and digital tools. The traditional craftsmen from Nagaland will be able to showcase their products to a global audience on digital platforms at INR 1 per digital transaction, he said.

Further, the scheme will help in establishing robust market linkages to connect the skilled workers with both domestic and international markets. They will be able to showcase their products to a larger audience through trade fairs, exhibitions and online platforms. A National Committee for Marketing (NCM) will provide services such as quality certification, branding and promotion, e-commerce linkage, trade fairs advertising, publicity and other marketing activities, he added.

The minister urged the people of the state to explore the opportunities, which will be unlocked by the PM Vishwakarma scheme, and together build a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous India.

Advisor of Labour, Employment and Skill Development, Moatoshi Longkumer, in his address, said that promotion of the traditional skills can create employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas and amongst marginalised communities.

Providing training and support to artisans and craftsmen can enable them to generate income through their talents. This will not only reduces unemployment but also help alleviate poverty in regions where economic opportunities are scarce, Longkumer said.

He was of the opinion that the scheme is custom-made for Nagaland, which perfectly fits into the social and customary practices and has the potential to change the economic scenario of the state.

Commissioner and Secretary of Industries and Commerce, Kekhrievor Kevichusa, informed that the department of Commerce and Industries will be implementing the scheme through skill training. He appealed for coordination among the line departments for smooth implementation of the scheme.

Earlier, the MoS also inspected the ‘Made in Nagaland’ products, which were displayed at the venue.

Also read: PM launches Vishwakarma scheme, inaugurates int’l convention centre in Delhi’s Dwarka