New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched the ‘PM Vishwakarma Scheme’, coinciding with the annual ‘Vishwakarma Jayanti’ celebrated every year on September 17.

"PM Vishwakarma" will receive full funding from the Union Government, with an impressive allocation of Rs 13,000 crore.

On the occasion, the prime minister interacted with the artisans at the YashoBhoomi Convention Centre.

The scheme was inaugurated at the newly inaugurated YashoBhoomi Expo & Convention Centre.

Earlier, PM Modi inaugurated a nearly 2 km long extension of the Airport Express line, connecting Dwarka Sector 21 to YashoBhoomi Dwarka Sector 25 and the Phase-I of India International Convention and Expo Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi

The "PM Vishwakarma" scheme reflects the steadfast commitment of PM Modi to support and uplift individuals engaged in traditional crafts, it said.

The scheme aims to preserve age-old traditions, culture, and the rich heritage embodied in local products, art, and crafts, the release said.

During his address to the nation from the Red Fort on the 77th Independence Day, PM Modi declared that the government would soon initiate a scheme aimed at supporting individuals with expertise in traditional craftsmanship.

The initiative will enroll 'Vishwakarmas', skilled artisans who craft with their hands and tools, free of charge through Common Services Centres, utilizing the biometric-enabled 'PM Vishwakarma' portal.

These dedicated artisans and craftspeople will be duly acknowledged with a PM Vishwakarma certificate and an accompanying ID card, as stated in the press release.

At its core, "PM Vishwakarma" seeks to bolster and nurture the 'Guru-Shishya parampara' (mentor-disciple tradition) and the family-based practice of traditional skills among 'Vishwakarmas', who create using their hands and tools.

This comprehensive scheme will benefit artisans and craftspeople in rural and urban areas across India. It encompasses eighteen traditional crafts, including carpenter, boat maker, armourer, blacksmith, hammer and tool kit maker, locksmith, goldsmith, potter, sculptor, stone breaker, cobbler (shoesmith/footwear artisan), mason (rajmistri), basket, mat, broom maker, coir weaver, doll and toy maker (traditional), barber, garland maker, washerman, tailor, and fishing net maker, read the release.

"PM Vishwakarma" represents a significant stride toward preserving India's cultural heritage, empowering skilled artisans, and promoting the rich tradition of craftsmanship that has endured for generations.

This endeavor exemplifies the government's dedication to preserving and uplifting traditional crafts, ensuring their continued prosperity in the contemporary world.