STATE : Traditional artisans of our country form the major share of our workforce in the Indian economy. That is why the workers of the unorganized sector have a crucial role to play in the economic development of the country, stated the Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan after inaugurating the exhibition-cum-trade fair under PM- Viswakarma scheme on Friday. The Union Minister of MSME, Jitan Ram Manjhi, graced the program as a special guest. This exhibition-cu-trade fair will continue till October 27.

Addressing the gathering there, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said that artisans of 18 trades, including carpenters, masons, barbers, washermen, tailors, puppets, and toy manufacturers, will come under this scheme. Under the scheme, skill development training, soft loans, modern equipment and instruments, some incentives for digital transactions, etc., benefits are being provided to the beneficiaries.

The Chief Minister further said the rural economy of the state is better and quite advanced now. The number of self-help groups has also increased considerably. Under various central and state schemes, these SHGs are being helped. They are getting loans from the banks. He hoped that the conventional workforce of the state would benefit from the PM Viswakarma scheme.

Union MSME minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, speaking on occasion, said various programs are being implemented across the country under the PM-Viswakarma scheme. Because this scheme aims to create earning avenues for the poor. PM Narendra Modi also emphasized expanding livelihood opportunities through MSME ventures. The initiative has been taken in this direction. Under the PM-Viswakarma scheme, Tripura has made considerable progress.