The Directorate of Industries, Himachal Pradesh, celebrated the second anniversary of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme at its headquarters in Shimla, reaffirming its commitment to empowering traditional artisans and promoting inclusive development. The event was graced by R.D. Nazeem (IAS), Additional Chief Secretary (Industries), as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Dr. Yunus (IAS), Director of Industries; Dr. Harish Gajju (HAS), Additional Director (Admin); Deepika Khatri and Anil Thakur, Joint Directors; Ambika Sood, Deputy Director and GM, DIC; Sanjay Kanwar, and key stakeholders from the MSME and banking sectors.
The celebration witnessed hybrid participation, with beneficiaries of the scheme joining both in person and virtually from all twelve districts of Himachal Pradesh. The District Industries Centres (DICs) played a crucial role in coordinating live video conferences, enabling inclusive representation across the state.
In his welcome address, Dr. Yunus (IAS), Director of Industries, highlighted the efficient implementation of the scheme. He informed that over 19,000 applications had been approved, and 12,000 artisans had already received skill development training under the initiative. He reiterated the department’s commitment to empowering artisans through training, market access, and institutional support.
R.D. Nazeem (IAS) inaugurated the event by unveiling a documentary showcasing the transformative journeys of traditional artisans across Himachal Pradesh, brought forward through the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. He also interacted with beneficiaries from multiple districts, hearing firsthand testimonials on how the scheme had positively impacted their livelihoods, skills, and economic independence.
During the event, select artisans were felicitated for their achievements. Nazeem commended their confidence, market readiness, and efforts in promoting Himachali craftsmanship at national and local levels. He acknowledged the support of the Government of India, especially Dr. Rajneesh (IAS), Additional Secretary and Commissioner, Ministry of MSME, for their pivotal role in the scheme’s success. He further congratulated the Directorate of Industries for the effective implementation and outreach of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme across Himachal Pradesh.
Speaking on the occasion, Tilak Raj Sharma, Additional Director, Industries, stated that the Directorate remains firmly committed to preserving traditional skills, strengthening rural livelihoods, and driving the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ through inclusive, sustainable development. He emphasized that initiatives like PM Vishwakarma are not just schemes, but movements toward self-reliance, dignity of labour, and artisan-led growth.
The event served as a milestone in the scheme’s journey, showcasing Himachal Pradesh’s efforts in building a strong, skilled, and self-sufficient artisan community through policy support, training, and active stakeholder engagement.
