Toolkit distribution under PM Vishwakarma Scheme held in Kohima

DIMAPUR — A toolkit handing over ceremony under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme was held at the DC Office, Kohima, in the presence of Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, on Friday.

The event marked an important step in empowering traditional artisans and craftspeople in the district, a DIPR report stated.

In his address, the deputy commissioner highlighted the significance of the event, noting the government's efforts to support local artisans. Citing Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio's mantra to ‘plant the seeds’ rather than consume them, he encouraged artisans to leverage the provided tools to exponentially grow their earnings and strive for sustainable, long-term prosperity.

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The DC illustrated his point with a business strategy example, contrasting a mainland shopkeeper's adaptable pricing approach with a local shopkeeper's rigid pricing. He highlighted that the mainland shopkeeper buys a product for INR 1000, sells it INR 2000, and adjusts prices to INR 1500 or 1000 if it doesn't sell, leveraging earlier profits. Meanwhile, the local shopkeeper maintains the INR 2000 price point despite slow sales. The DC also cited an example of a woman from Mao who successfully sold flowers for lakhs in cities like Bangalore.

Buchem encouraged the artisans to be professional, dedicated, and sacrificial in their efforts, expressing hope that in the coming years, the district would be proud to hear their success stories.

Functional Manager of District Industries Centre, Kohima, Jessy Jurry, presented a brief report on the PM Vishwakarma Scheme's progress in the district. She informed that 261 artisans have been trained out of 2102 applicants, and 91 toolkits distributed in Kohima district. Training was provided in various traditional trades, including barbering, carpentry, tailoring, basket weaving, doll and toy crafting, and masonry.

One of the beneficiaries, Baby Vizo, shared her journey starting from registration at a Common Services Centre to training at SCTE/ITI and eventually receiving government support.

She expressed her gratitude to the government and revealed that a group would be formed among the artisans to work together and expand their businesses.

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, aims to support traditional artisans by preserving their skills, improving their livelihoods, and integrating them into the formal economy through training, toolkits, credit, and marketing assistance.

The event was chaired by SDO (C) Rorheu Peseyie. Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Deputy Director of Industries and Commerce, Keneirienuo T Zatsu.