New Delhi: BJP OBC Morcha President K Laxman on Thursday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving the 'PM Vishwakarma' scheme in the Union Cabinet on Wednesday. This scheme aims to support the livelihoods of traditional artisans and craftsmen.
The scheme will be launched on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti on September 17, which is also the birthday of PM Modi.
"I feel it is a gift on PM Modi's birthday to the people," he said while addressing a press conference. "I thank PM Modi and govt for taking a historical decision in yesterday's cabinet meeting... the cabinet has given green signal for launching 'PM Viswakarma' on 17th September, on Vishwakarma Jayanti and I feel it is a gift on the PM Modi's birthday to the people of these weaker sections."
Speaking on the scheme, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters, "PM Modi from the Red Fort launched the scheme 'Vishwakarma Yojana'. We have also made provisions in the budget for it. PM Modi has decided to support the artisans all over the country who produce India's excellence and skill. The Vishwakarma Yojana will get launched on 17th September. We are very proud to be here in Raghurajpur in this context," reported ANI.
The scheme, which was announced by PM Modi during his Independence Day speech, aims to give benefit to about 30 lakh traditional artisans and craftsmen, including weavers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, laundry workers, and barbers. It is set to receive an initial allocation of Rs 13,000 crore.
Under the scheme, the craftsmen will be provided a subsidised loan of Rs 1 lakh in the first tranche and another Rs 2 lakh in the second tranche under this scheme.
The loans will be provided at a concessional interest rate of 5 per cent.