A Toolkit Handing Over Ceremony under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme was held at the DC Office, Kohima, in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B Henok Buchem, NCS on 20th June 2025. The event marked an important step in empowering traditional artisans and craftspeople in the district.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Commissioner said it was a significant day as the government had responded to the needs and interests of local artisans. Quoting Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio's words, "Don't eat the seeds, plant the seeds," he urged the artisans to multiply their gains a hundred or thousand fold using the tools provided and to work towards sustainability and long-term success.
To illustrate his point, the DC gave an example of business strategy, where a mainland shopkeeper buys a product for ₹1000, sells it at ₹2000, and if it doesn't sell, reduces the price to ₹1500 or even ₹1000, considering earlier profits. In contrast, a local shopkeeper sticks to ₹2000 even after years. He also shared how a woman from Mao sold her flowers for lakhs in metro cities like Bangalore.
He encouraged the artisans to be professional, dedicated, and sacrificial in their efforts, expressing hope that in the coming years, the district would be proud to hear their success stories.
Functional Manager of District Industries Centre, Kohima, Jessy Jurry, presented a brief report on the PM Vishwakarma Scheme's progress in the district. She informed that 261 artisans have been trained out of 2102 applicants, and 91 toolkits have been distributed in Kohima. Training was provided in trades such as barber, carpenter, tailor, basket maker, doll and toy making, and mason.
One of the beneficiaries, Baby Vizo, shared her journey starting from registration at a Common Services Centre to training at SCTE/ITI and eventually receiving government support. She expressed her gratitude to the government and revealed that a group would be formed among the artisans to work together and expand their businesses.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, aims to support traditional artisans by preserving their skills, improving their livelihoods, and integrating them into the formal economy through training, toolkits, credit, and marketing assistance.
The event was chaired by SDO (C) Rorheu Peseyie. The welcome address was delivered by Deputy Director of Industries and Commerce, Keneirienuo T Zatsu.
(DPRO, Kohima)
