In a rare honour for the craftsmen of Tripura Karna Nama, a talented craftsman from Nalchar was invited to attend the prestigious “At Home” program held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on the occasion of Independence Day. Nama, who has made significant contributions to Tripura’s traditional handicraft industry, represented the state with pride at the President’s Secretariat, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of his homeland.
The event was particularly significant for Nama, as he was one of five beneficiaries selected under the Prime Minister’s Vishwakarma Yojana, a scheme launched to support traditional artisans and craftsmen across India. His selection was a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication to his craft. Prior to participating in the “At Home” program, Nama was felicitated by the Union Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Jitendra Ram Manjhi, in a special ceremony held on the morning of Independence Day. This recognition was followed by further honors from the Development Commissioner (MSME) of the Government of India and the President’s Secretariat, highlighting the national importance of his contributions to the traditional arts.
The Prime Minister’s Vishwakarma Yojana, launched on September 17 of the previous year, aims to uplift traditional artisans and craftsmen by providing them with the tools, training, and financial support needed to expand their businesses. The state government of Tripura has been actively implementing this project across all its districts, ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach the grassroots level. Artisans like Nama are awarded the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Certificate and ID card after receiving specialized skill training, enabling them to access various government support mechanisms.
The Vishwakarma Yojana has received a positive response from traditional artisans across Tripura, with approximately 50,000 individuals registering under the scheme so far. These registered artisans are provided with opportunities to enhance their livelihoods through subsidized bank loans offered at low-interest rates. The Vishwakarma Certificate and ID card not only validate their skills but also facilitate their access to financial resources necessary for business expansion. Additionally, beneficiaries receive a toolkit incentive of Rs. 15,000, which allows them to purchase advanced tools and equipment, further enhancing the quality and efficiency of their work.
To ensure broad participation, the state government has made it easy for interested artisans to register for the scheme through the Prime Minister Vishwakarma portal, with assistance available at local Common Service Centers (CSCs). This initiative has empowered many traditional craftsmen, helping them to preserve and promote their heritage while improving their economic prospects.
Karna Nama’s invitation to Rashtrapati Bhavan serves as a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the traditional handicrafts sector and symbolizes the success of the Vishwakarma Yojana in supporting artisans across India. His achievements reflect the rich cultural legacy of Tripura and the potential of traditional artisans to gain national and international recognition through their craft.
(Withinputs from Tripura Times) Pic representative from internet
