New Delhi, Feb 12 (.) Delhi Government has approved the ‘Mukhyamantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana’ to support thousands of artisans associated with khadi, handloom, cottage industries and the unorganised sector.
The decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The scheme aims to provide modern skills, financial support and direct access to digital markets to traditional workers in the city.
Calling it a major step, CM Gupta said Delhi’s artisans are the real strength of the city’s cultural heritage. “This is not just a scheme, but the beginning of a self-reliant future for our artisans,” she said.
She added that artisans need modern training and direct market access to grow in changing times.
The scheme will be implemented through the Delhi Khadi and Village Industries Board (DKVIB).
In 2025-26, around 3,728 beneficiaries were trained with an approved budget of Rs 8.95 crore.
For 2026-27, a grant of Rs 57.50 crore is proposed to expand the scheme further.
Under the scheme, beneficiaries will receive 12 days (96 hours) of training, including a two-day Entrepreneurship Development Programme.
Training will be conducted in small batches of 35 to 45 participants to ensure proper guidance. Each participant will receive a stipend of Rs 4,800 (Rs 400 per day) along with Rs 100 per day for meals.
After completing the training, beneficiaries will be given essential toolkits, including a foot-operated sewing machine.
In a major step towards digital empowerment, each artisan’s profile, photo and product details will be prepared in the form of an e-catalogue.
This will be uploaded on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform, giving their products access to national and global markets.
The scheme will also include Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to certify the skills of traditional artisans who are already working.
Beneficiaries will receive a Chief Minister’s certificate and identity card. They will also be assisted with MSME registration, branding and loan-related information.
The scheme will initially focus on around 18,000 tailors registered on the e-Shram portal and will later be expanded to other traditional occupations.
These include embroiderers, dress makers, potters, carpenters, cobblers, basket and mat makers, perfume makers, bamboo product makers, barbers, garland makers, washermen, fish net makers and carpet weavers.
To ensure transparency, applicants must be at least 18 years old. Only one member per family can avail the benefit. Government employees and their family members are not eligible. Aadhaar-based verification will be mandatory at the time of enrolment.
CM Gupta said the scheme connects skill development directly with income and dignity. “We are expanding opportunities for workers linked to khadi, handloom and village industries. They will now get not only training but also direct access to digital markets,” she said.
Industry Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the initiative will give thousands of families an opportunity to become self-reliant.
He added that courses such as merchandiser, logistics executive, IT executive and fashion production will open new job and business opportunities for artisans while preserving traditional crafts.
. PKJ KK