Big Opportunity for Rural Artisans: Government Launches PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026

New Delhi: The Central Government has opened a new avenue for underprivileged artisans with the inauguration of PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026, a unique platform designed to showcase the skills and craftsmanship of rural and marginalized artisans. The exhibition, inaugurated by Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, will run from 18 to 31 January, offering participants a range of benefits including skill training, toolkits, loans, and marketing support.

Speaking at the event, Minister Manjhi described the Haat as an opportunity for artisans to display their talents and promote their handicraft products to a wider audience. The inauguration saw the presence of senior officials from the Ministry of MSME, representatives from various states and Union Territories, as well as ambassadors from Iraq and Rwanda.

During the event, Minister Manjhi, along with Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje, visited multiple stalls and highlighted the vital role of the MSME sector in strengthening the Indian economy. He emphasized that PM Vishwakarma Haat provides a valuable platform for rural artisans to sell their products directly to consumers, helping them reach larger markets and contribute to national development.

Over 117 Artisans from Across India Participate

Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje expressed her delight at seeing over 117 artisans from different states and Union Territories participate in the exhibition. She noted that the event, held at Delhi Haat, celebrates India’s rich craft traditions with enthusiasm and grandeur. The exhibition is open daily from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM for the general public.

Support for Artisans

Manjhi congratulated the organizers and hailed the initiative as an exemplary effort. He highlighted the importance of ‘Vishwakarma’ and lauded the government’s vision of providing every artisan a platform to access markets and contribute to India’s growth under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Beneficiaries of the scheme are eligible for loans up to ₹3 lakh without collateral, along with incentives to adopt digital transactions. The program also provides marketing assistance, including product branding, packaging, and e-commerce support, ensuring artisans receive comprehensive help to expand their business.

Showcasing ‘Heritage to Development’

Secretary of the MSME Ministry, S.C.L. Das, described PM Vishwakarma Haat as a key initiative, stating that it truly reflects the vision of ‘Heritage to Development’ by enabling artisans to professionally carry forward their traditional expertise. Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner Dr. Rajnish underlined that Vishwakarmas are engines of India’s economic growth, explaining how the initiative is creating better market opportunities for artisans.

Adding vibrancy to the Haat, cultural programs featuring folk dances and performances inspired by Bihar and Rajasthan brought alive India’s rich cultural diversity.