SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 17

Correct Answer

Must be engaged in traditional crafts

Explanation

Under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, the primary eligibility criterion is that the applicant must be an artisan or craftsman working with their hands and tools, and must be engaged in one of the 18 family-based traditional trades (such as carpenter, blacksmith, goldsmith, potter, cobbler, mason, etc.) on a self-employment basis. The scheme has been launched to provide financial assistance, skill development, and modern toolkits to these traditional workers in the unorganized sector.

Key Points

The scheme initially covers 18 traditional trades that are based on the Guru-Shishya parampara or generation-to-generation transfer of skills.

The minimum age of the applicant should be 18 years at the time of registration under the scheme.

The benefits and registration under the scheme are restricted to only one member of a family (husband, wife, and unmarried children).

An applicant or their family members employed in government services are not eligible under this scheme.

Additional Facts

PM Vishwakarma Yojana was launched on September 17, 2023 (Vishwakarma Jayanti) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is a Central Sector Scheme fully funded by the Union Government.

Under the scheme, beneficiaries are provided with collateral-free loans up to ₹1 lakh in the first tranche and up to ₹2 lakh in the second tranche at a highly concessional interest rate of 5%.

Artisans receive a stipend of ₹500 per day during basic and advanced skill training, and an e-voucher (grant) of ₹15,000 to purchase modern toolkits after training.

Important Questions

Question: How many traditional trades or crafts are initially covered under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana?

Answer: 18 traditional trades.

Question: What is the amount of incentive grant provided to artisans for purchasing modern toolkits under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana?

Answer: ₹15,000 (in the form of an e-voucher).