Daijiworld Media Network- Damoh
Damoh, Apr 28: The ambitious PM Vishwakarma Yojana, launched by the Central Government, is emerging as a game-changer for the poor and working-class people in Madhya Pradesh’s Damoh district. The scheme has not only helped people become self-reliant but has also transformed the lives of hundreds by turning dreams into reality.
Through training, financial aid, and easy loan facilities, the initiative is giving many families the opportunity to move from low-wage labour to entrepreneurship.
Under the scheme, residents of Damoh can conveniently apply through 'MP Online Cafe'. Once approved, beneficiaries undergo six days of free training at designated centres, where skills like sewing, embroidery, knitting, craftsmanship, toy making, light fitting, and furniture making are imparted.
Within 45 days of completing their training, each participant receives Rs 3,000 as an honorarium (at Rs 500 per day) and a travel allowance of Rs 1,000, directly credited to their bank accounts. Beneficiaries are also awarded a certificate, enhancing their employment prospects and eligibility for loans.
Sharing his success story, Neeraj Vishwakarma, a beneficiary, said, “I had applied with little hope. But when I was selected, it felt like a new beginning. I learned furniture making during the training, received a certificate, and an honorarium. I now hope to secure a good job with this certificate.”
He added that earlier, a lack of education and experience certificates posed hurdles for labourers, but now the scheme is offering a new direction. Under the programme, beneficiaries can avail loans up to Rs 3 lakh and equipment support worth Rs 15,000.
Sanjay Vishwakarma of Hata tehsil echoed similar sentiments. "Earlier, I was a labourer. Today, I am preparing to open my own shop, thanks to the PM Vishwakarma Yojana. After six days of training and receiving a certificate, I can now access a loan to start my business. I am thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this wonderful initiative," he said.
Dashoda Lodhi, a woman beneficiary from Simri, expressed her gratitude towards the scheme as well. "The training and financial support helped me dream bigger. This scheme is helping women like me become self-reliant and independent," she said.
According to the Damoh district administration, intensive awareness campaigns are underway to ensure that more and more people can benefit from the programme. Officials highlighted that the scheme is not just fostering skill development but also boosting small businesses and industries.
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is fast becoming a pillar of economic empowerment and social transformation for the people of Damoh.