Focus Tamil Nadu | Why the DK, DMK and allies are opposing the PM Vishwakarma scheme
The Hindu
In this episode we discuss, PM Vishwakarma scheme and why are some parties in Tamil Nadu opposing it
The Narendra Modi government is all set to the launch the PM Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana (PM-VIKAS), otherwise referred to as the PM Vishwakarma scheme, on September 17. The scheme essentially seeks to empower the traditional artisans and craftspersons, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, cobblers, dhobis, carpenters, and the like.
The idea is to upgrade the skills of the artisans, give them access to modern tools and also provide them a platform for brand promotion and market linkages. The project is being rolled out with an outlay of Rs. 13,000 crore.
According to the scheme, the eligible tradesmen in family-based occupations shall be given a collateral free loan of Rs 3 lakh. This will be Rs. 1 lakh in the first installment and the remaining in subsequent installment at an interest rate of 5%.
However, Dravidar Kazhagam leader K. Veeramani has taken the lead in opposing this scheme. The DMK and its allies in Tamil Nadu have also raised objections. Why is this so?
Script and presentation: D. Suresh Kumar
Production: Shibu Narayan
Videography: S. Shiva Raj
More than 2.6 lakh village and ward volunteers in Andhra Pradesh, once celebrated as the government’s grassroots champions for their crucial role in implementing welfare schemes, are now in a dilemma after learning that their tenure has not been renewed after August 2023 even though they have been paid honoraria till June 2024. Disowned by both YSRCP, which was in power when they were appointed, and the current ruling TDP, which made a poll promise to double their pay, these former volunteers are ruing the day they signed up for the role which they don’t know if even still exists