Digital Payments And Local Crafts: PM Modi Showcases Support for Artisans in Wardha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Wardha, Maharashtra, on Friday to celebrate the progress of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, marking its first anniversary. During his visit, he engaged with local artisans and purchased a Lord Jagannath artefact, demonstrating his support for their craftsmanship.

After distributing certificates to beneficiaries of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, PM Modi toured a theme pavilion showcasing artisan products. He interacted with several artisans and made a digital payment for the Jagannath idol by scanning a QR code, a gesture that has garnered praise on social media as a meaningful recognition of artisans’ efforts.

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At the anniversary event, PM Modi unveiled a commemorative stamp issued by India Post and distributed digital ID cards and skill certificates to over 100,000 beneficiaries. He also handed out loan sanction letters to 75,000 beneficiaries and presented loan cheques to 18 artisans participating in the scheme.

In his address, PM Modi emphasized the initiative’s positive impact on artisans, stating, “It has preserved their skills and fostered economic growth.” He encouraged artisans to embrace entrepreneurship and take full advantage of the scheme’s offerings.

Additionally, PM Modi launched two Maharashtra government initiatives: the ‘Acharya Chanakya Kaushalya Vikas Scheme’ aimed at providing free skill development training for youth, and the ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Women Startup Scheme’ designed to support women-led startups in achieving self-reliance. The Kaushalya Vikas Scheme will establish training centers in renowned colleges for youth aged 15 to 45, while the Holkar scheme will offer financial assistance of up to Rs 25 lakh to women entrepreneurs.