Jammu and Kashmir First UT to Implement PM Vishwakarma Yojana
Jammu and Kashmir took a significant step towards empowering its vibrant community of artisans and craftspeople by becoming the first Union Territory (UT) to implement the PM Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY). This initiative, launched by the Central government in September 2023, aims to uplift and recognise the crucial role these skilled individuals play in preserving and enriching India's cultural heritage.
The inauguration ceremony, held virtually, witnessed the participation of Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, and Secretary of the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The ceremony also saw the commencement of the training program for the first batch of 30 trainees (Viswakarmas) specializing in 'darzi craft'.
Recognition and Certification: The scheme provides formal recognition to artisans and craftspeople through the issuance of PM Vishwakarma certificates and ID cards. This recognition not only validates their skills and expertise but also opens doors to new opportunities and market access.
Financial Support and Incentives: To further empower Viswakarmas, the scheme provides them with a daily stipend of Rs. 500 during training. Additionally, upon successful completion of the program, each trainee receives a free modern toolkit worth Rs. 15,000. This financial support alleviates financial constraints and equips artisans with the necessary tools to kick start their entrepreneurial ventures.
Jan 03, 2024
Rajasthan Seeks Integration of Chiranjeevi Scheme with Ayushman Bharat
The newly elected BJP government in Rajasthan is making strides to merge its state health insurance scheme, Chiranjeevi, with the central Ayushman Bharat programme. This move, pending approval from the Union Health Ministry, aims to create a unified initiative called the Ayushman Bharat Mukhyamantri Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme.
The merged scheme is set to retain the comprehensive coverage of Rs. 25 lakh without any reduction.
The integration aligns with the state government's directive to issue new health cards by January 26, synchronised with national efforts to cover all Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The Chiranjeevi scheme, initially designed to benefit over 1.42 crore families, continues to provide extensive coverage, with final figures awaiting confirmation from the health ministry.