Govt imparts AI training to 2,500 artisans under PM Vishwakarma Scheme

NEW DELHI, Apr 19 : The Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) on Sunday said over 2,500 beneficiaries, including artisans and craftspeople, have been trained on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme to improve their livelihoods and business potential.

The initiative aligns with the vision of “AI for Social Good”, as emphasised by the Prime Minister during the IndiaAI Impact Summit and reflected in the Delhi Declaration, according to a statement.

It stands out as a first-of-its-kind effort across Government of India ministries, aimed at integrating grassroots artisans into the rapidly evolving AI ecosystem.

By integrating AI into traditional craftsmanship, the ministry aims to bridge the digital divide for grassroots entrepreneurs; enhance product value and global competitiveness; enable artisans to access new markets and customer segments; and promote inclusive economic growth, it said.

This initiative marks a significant step towards transforming India’s rich artisanal heritage into a digitally empowered and globally competitive sector, the MSME ministry stated.

Participants were introduced to leading AI platforms such as ChatGPT, Indus, and Google Gemini, enabling them to leverage technology for real-world applications.

The programme focused on empowering artisans with practical AI-driven skills, including introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and overview of widely used AI tools; branding, product design, packaging, and marketing strategies; enhancing business efficiency using digital and AI-enabled solutions; and leveraging AI for customer engagement and expanding market reach. (PTI)