In a significant push for employment and skill development, Mandya district has reported substantial progress under two key central government schemes. Deputy Commissioner Kumara announced that banks have already disbursed subsidies exceeding Rs 4 crore for the current financial year under the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP).
PMEGP Targets and Achievements for 2025-26
Presiding over a district-level committee meeting on Thursday, DC Kumara revealed the ambitious targets set for the district. For the financial year 2025-26, the administration has set a goal to cover 102 eligible unemployed persons under the PMEGP. Significant headway has already been made, with 70 beneficiaries identified and subsidies successfully transferred to their accounts.
The cumulative subsidy amount disbursed by various banks in Mandya under this scheme has crossed the Rs 4 crore mark. This financial support is a critical component in helping aspiring entrepreneurs establish their own micro-enterprises.
Massive Reach of PM Vishwakarma Scheme
The review of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme showcased an even wider impact. DC Kumara stated that in Mandya district, more than 19,000 beneficiaries have undergone skill training designed for traditional artisans and craftspeople.
Furthermore, to equip them for practical work, toolkits worth Rs 15,000 each have been distributed to 9,600 individuals. The district has witnessed particularly strong demand for training in traditional trades such as flower garland making, tailoring, and basket weaving.
Under the Vishwakarma scheme, eligible artisans can avail themselves of loans up to Rs 1 lakh, which are further supported by government subsidies, making the financial burden lighter for skilled workers.
Focus on Sustainable Enterprise Creation
DC Kumara emphasized that training and toolkit distribution alone are not sufficient for long-term success. He stressed the critical importance of ensuring bank loan support so that beneficiaries can actually start and sustain their enterprises.
To ensure the schemes deliver tangible results, he has issued specific directives to officials. Inspections will be conducted to verify the proper and productive use of the distributed toolkits. Additionally, officials have been ordered to organise taluk-level workshops across Mandya district.
The aim of these workshops is to bridge any gaps in awareness and access, ensuring that the benefits of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme reach every deserving artisan in the district's taluks.
