TEZU, Jan 10: With a view to sensitize traditional artisans and craftsmen about government support mechanisms for skill upgradation, entrepreneurship and financial inclusion, a one-day awareness camp on PM Vishwakarma Scheme was successfully carried out at the BRCC Hall here.
Organized by the Asstt Director, MSME (DFO), Itanagar in collaboration with the Department of Industries (GoAP), District Industries Centre (DIC) Lohit, and NGO Niumbi Foundation, the camp saw participation of over 80 attendees, including members of various Self-Help Groups (SHGs), local artisans and craftsmen, reflecting strong grassroots interest in livelihood-oriented schemes.
The event started with a welcome address by the EO Industries, setting the context of the scheme and its relevance for local traditional occupations.
Pemchom Lama, Jt Director Industries, DIC Tezu, in his address, emphasized that the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a major initiative aimed at empowering traditional workers through formal recognition, financial assistance, skill training and market linkage.
Later, a detailed technical session was conducted by Diksha Nanda Bora, MSME Expert and PM Vishwakarma Consultant, who spoke on entrepreneurship development, modern marketing practices, packaging, branding, and online onboarding. He highlighted the importance of adapting traditional skills to contemporary market demands while retaining their cultural value.
Another session was delivered by Satish Kumar, Asstt Director Branch MSME (DFO), Itanagar, who elaborated on various MSME schemes, banking facilities, credit support and allied development programmes, encouraging participants to leverage institutional support for expanding their enterprises.
Representatives from different banking institutions shed light on financial literacy, digital banking services and credit facilities, while officials from various line departments and the District Manager of Common Service Centres (CSC) interacted with participants, explaining the benefits, eligibility criteria and procedural aspects of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
To ensure immediate outreach, on-the-spot registration of eligible beneficiaries under the scheme was carried out by CSC officials, enabling participants to directly begin the onboarding process.
Hinium Takung, Chairman Niumhi Foundation, also spoke. (DIPRO)