*Jammu, Budgam make it to top 10 distts in country
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 23: Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as a leader in the implementation of the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Scheme, securing the third position nationwide, ahead of several larger States.
Two districts from the Union Territory, Budgam from the Kashmir division and Jammu from the Jammu division, have made it to the top 10 districts in the country under this scheme. This success is largely attributed to the efforts of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development Facilitation Office (DFO) in Jammu, which operates under the Union Ministry of MSME, and the active support provided by the Government of J&K. The MSME DFO Jammu has played a pivotal role in implementing various schemes for the benefit of MSMEs, including the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
In recognition of their excellent contributions to the success of the scheme, Akshay Labroo (District Magistrate of Budgam) and Sachin Kumar Vaishya (District Magistrate of Jammu), are being honoured with awards for their roles as chairmen of the District Implementation Committees in their respective districts. Valluru Babu (Joint Director, Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship) will also be recognized for his leadership in overseeing the completion of the PM Vishwakarma training activities in J&K. These awards will be presented by Jugal Kishore, Member of Parliament, during the inaugural session of the Exhibition-cum-Trade Fair for PM Vishwakarma artisans at Gole Market, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, on October 24.
The exhibition aims to enhance the marketing potential of J&K’s highly skilled Vishwakarma artisans. Stalls are being provided free of cost to artisans, along with reimbursements for accommodation and other expenses, up to Rs 5,750 per artisan. This initiative seeks to empower artisans while contributing to the economic growth of the region, all while preserving and enriching the unique cultural heritage of J&K.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is designed to uplift and recognize the crucial role of skilled artisans across 18 different trades. The scheme offers recognition and certification, skill development and training, credit assistance, and marketing support to these artisans.