New Delhi: In a major push to empower India’s traditional artisans and craftspeople, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Amazon Seller Services Private Limited to facilitate nationwide online market access for beneficiaries of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
The MoU was signed at Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi, between the Office of the Development Commissioner (MSME) and representatives from Amazon. The collaboration aims to help PM Vishwakarma-registered artisans list their handmade products on Amazon’s e-commerce platform, improve visibility, and significantly expand their customer reach across India.
Amazon to Support Onboarding and Digital Integration
As part of the agreement, Amazon will assist eligible artisans in creating seller accounts, listing products, optimizing catalogues, and adopting digital selling tools. The e-commerce platform will also promote traditional crafts under its flagship Amazon Karigar program, which showcases India’s rich artisanal heritage and supports craftsmen with branding and digital marketing.
Amazon will facilitate smoother onboarding by offering training, handholding support, and guidance on packaging, logistics, and compliance requirements.
MSME Ministry to Provide Policy and Administrative Support
The Ministry, through its Development Commissioner’s office, will support artisans in obtaining necessary approvals, registrations, and clearances required for online selling. It will also help streamline documentation for Vishwakarma beneficiaries and coordinate with state-level authorities to enable seamless integration onto the platform.
Officials noted that the partnership is expected to strengthen market linkages, enhance product quality, and increase sales for traditional craft communities.
PM Vishwakarma Scheme: Holistic Support for Traditional Trades
Launched in September 2023, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme provides comprehensive support to artisans involved in 18 traditional trades, including:
- Carpentry
- Blacksmithing and goldsmithing
- Tailoring
- Pottery
- Locksmithing
- Toolmaking
- Doll and toy making
- Basket and mat weaving
- Garland making
- Cobbler work
The scheme offers skill upgradation, modern toolkits, training stipends, credit up to ₹3 lakh at concessional interest, digital and financial literacy, and market access.
The new MoU with Amazon is expected to significantly amplify market opportunities for these artisans, helping them embrace digital commerce and expand their nationwide presence.
