Gandhinagar: Since its launch in September 2023, the PM Vishwakarma scheme has provided loans exceeding ₹290 crore to over 32,000 artisans in Gujarat, according to state officials. In total, loan approvals under the scheme have crossed ₹390 crore for more than 43,000 beneficiaries. A three-tier verification process has been completed for 2.14 lakh artisans, while 1.81 lakh have received skill training.

The state has also set up a helpdesk that has addressed over 17,500 queries and grievances. Artisans are registered through Common Service Centres, with verification conducted at three levels: local gram panchayats, district committees, and a state-level committee chaired by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development and Facilitation Office.

Covering 18 traditional trades—including carpentry, blacksmithing, pottery, tailoring, masonry, toy making, and basket weaving—the scheme aims to preserve heritage crafts while providing artisans access to modern tools, credit facilities, and market linkages, officials said.