PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026: Showcasing Artisan Skills and Craftsmanship
PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 celebrates artisans, promoting traditional crafts and cultural experiences.
Photo by Sonika Agarwal
Key Facts
Event dates: January 18th to 31st, 2026
Location: Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi
30 Lakh Vishwakarmas registered
₹4,600+ crore loan approved
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors.
GS Paper 3: Indian Economy - Issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
Potential question types: Statement-based MCQs, analytical questions on the role of government schemes in promoting traditional crafts.
Visual Insights
PM Vishwakarma Yojana: Key Achievements (January 2026)
Key statistics highlighting the progress of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana as of January 2026, showcasing its impact on artisans and craftspeople.
- Vishwakarmas Registered
- 30 Lakh
- Vishwakarmas Skill Trained
- 23 Lakh
- Loans Approved
- ₹4,600 crore
- Toolkits Distributed
- 12 Lakh
Indicates the reach of the scheme in identifying and registering traditional artisans and craftspeople.
Highlights the focus on skill development to enhance productivity and quality of products.
Demonstrates the financial assistance provided to Vishwakarmas to start or expand their businesses.
Shows the provision of modern tools to improve the efficiency and quality of work.
More Information
Background
The tradition of craftsmanship in India dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization, with evidence of pottery, metalwork, and jewelry. Guilds, known as 'shrenis,' played a crucial role in organizing artisans and regulating trade during ancient and medieval periods. The patronage of royal courts and temples further fostered the development of specialized crafts.
During the Mughal era, crafts like carpet weaving, miniature painting, and metal engraving flourished. The British colonial period saw a decline in traditional crafts due to industrialization and competition from machine-made goods. Post-independence, the government has implemented various policies and schemes to revive and promote traditional crafts, recognizing their cultural and economic significance.
These efforts aim to preserve India's rich heritage and provide livelihoods to millions of artisans.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on promoting digital inclusion and e-commerce for artisans. Initiatives like the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) have been expanded to onboard more artisans and provide them with access to a wider market. There is also a growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly crafts, with artisans adopting environmentally responsible practices.
The use of technology, such as 3D printing and design software, is being encouraged to enhance the productivity and innovation of artisans. Furthermore, collaborations between artisans and designers are becoming more common, leading to the creation of contemporary products that appeal to a global audience. The future outlook involves strengthening market linkages, providing skill upgradation, and ensuring social security for artisans.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the PM Vishwakarma Yojana: 1. The scheme aims to enhance the skills of artisans and craftspeople and provide global recognition. 2. It focuses solely on providing financial assistance without skill training components. 3. The scheme facilitates market linkage for Vishwakarmas. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statements 1 and 3 are correct as the scheme aims to enhance skills and provide market linkage. Statement 2 is incorrect as the scheme includes skill training components.
2. With reference to the historical context of artisan guilds in India, what were 'shrenis' primarily responsible for?
- A.Organizing artisans and regulating trade
- B.Providing religious education to artisans
- C.Collecting taxes on behalf of the government
- D.Managing agricultural land for the community
Show Answer
Answer: A
'Shrenis' were guilds that played a crucial role in organizing artisans and regulating trade during ancient and medieval periods in India.
3. Which of the following initiatives aims to provide artisans with access to a wider market through digital platforms?
- A.Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
- B.Government e-Marketplace (GeM)
- C.Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
- D.Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)
Show Answer
Answer: B
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has been expanded to onboard more artisans and provide them with access to a wider market.