PM Vishwakarma Scheme set for roll-out in West Bengal

**Executive Summary** This report outlines the implementation of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme in West Bengal following high-level meetings between Central and State officials on May 22, 2026. The discussions focused on accelerating beneficiary identification, skill development, and the establishment of monitoring committees to support the state’s 7.79 lakh enrolled artisans. Additionally, the report notes the inauguration of a new Transformer Testing Facility in Kolkata on May 21, 2026, to enhance regional MSME infrastructure. **Key Points / Main Content** **PM Vishwakarma Scheme Implementation** * The Government of West Bengal has officially notified the constitution of a State Monitoring Committee and District Implementation Committees for the scheme’s roll-out. * Implementation strategies focus on improving beneficiary identification and ensuring wider outreach to traditional artisans and craftspeople. * The scheme aims to empower artisans by providing access to modern tools, formal financial support, and enhanced market opportunities. * As of the report date, 7.79 lakh artisans and craftspeople are already enrolled under the scheme in West Bengal. **MSME Ecosystem and Institutional Support** * Central and State officials are working to strengthen the MSME ecosystem through enhanced coordination and institutional support. * Meetings with state functionaries and bankers have been held to detail the modalities for outreach and financial implementation. * The Ministry of MSME is reviewing Technology and Testing Centres in Kolkata to expand technological and tooling support for local businesses. **New Infrastructure and Testing Facilities** * A modern "Transformer Testing Facility" was inaugurated at the MSME Testing Centre in Kolkata on May 21, 2026. * The facility offers affordable, standardized testing for both step-up and step-down transformers under one roof. * The initiative is designed to reduce dependency on distant laboratories and minimize testing turnaround times for regional manufacturers. **Impact Analysis** **Traditional Artisans and Craftspeople** **Impact** They gain access to skill development, modern equipment, and formal credit, which helps in preserving traditional crafts while improving economic viability. **Action Required** Eligible artisans must engage with the District Implementation Committees to access scheme benefits and training. **MSME Transformer Manufacturers** **Impact** Local manufacturers benefit from cost-competitive and reliable testing services within the region, improving their operational efficiency. **Action Required** Enterprises should transition their testing requirements to the new MSME Testing Centre in Kolkata to reduce logistical costs and time. **State Government of West Bengal** **Impact** The state is responsible for the localized execution of this central sector scheme through its newly formed committees. **Action Required** The government must ensure effective coordination between the State Monitoring Committee and the Ministry of MSME to meet implementation targets. **Banking Institutions** **Impact** Bankers are integrated into the scheme’s delivery model to facilitate formal financial access for the artisan community. **Action Required** Banks must align their processes with the outreach modalities discussed to provide timely credit and financial services to enrolled beneficiaries.

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