DIY India – The government’s ₹13,000cr proposal to train artisans is a step towards self-reliance

Source: The post is based on the article “DIY India – The government’s ₹13,000cr proposal to train artisans is a step towards self-reliance” published in The Times of India on 6^th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2 – Government Policies & Intervention

Relevance: About PM Vishwakarma Scheme

News: Skilled workers like plumbers and carpenters have become difficult to find in India because many leave for better opportunities abroad.

Additionally, there’s a lack of a DIY (Do It Yourself) culture among the middle-class Indians, unlike in the West where people do minor repairs themselves.

Hence, to address this issue, the government is planning to launch a ₹13,000 crore scheme, known as PM Vishwakarma Scheme.

What is the scheme about?

The scheme will train artisans in various manual crafts, including carpentry. It will be launched for five years on Vishwakarma Jayanti (September 17).

In the first year, six lakh families will benefit, with one member receiving a subsidized ₹2 lakh loan to learn a specific craft.

This initiative hopes to supplement the country’s skilled workforce and promote the Gandhian idea of dignifying manual labor. 

Read More: Licence To Skill – GOI’s scheme for craftspeople is a good idea but its success critically depends on finding markets and Vishwakarma scheme will aid 30 lakh artisan families

What are the concerns associated with the scheme?

There is a concern that, like many IIT and other institution graduates, these artisans might also leave for better opportunities abroad, leading to a “Brain Drain” issue.

Hence, this situation highlights the importance of self-reliance; as the saying goes, “If you want a job done, you have to do it yourself.” Like charity, Atmanirbharta begins at home.