A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the apex trade body, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) appointing GJEPC as implementing agency for Prime Minister PM Vishwakarma Scheme on 14^th March 2024 in Delhi. The MoU was signed in the august presence of Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, was present on this momentous occasion.

Sabyasachi Ray, ED, GJEPC, said, “Under the Kushal Bharat Viksit Bharat motto, this MoU will promote initiatives to bring speed and scale to India's skill ecosystem. The primary objective of the scheme is to enable the recognition of artisans and craftspeople as ‘Vishwakarmas’ making them eligible to avail the benefits under the scheme. GJEPC will impart skill training to registered Vishwakarmas under PM Vishwakarma Yojana for the trade of Goldsmiths across the country. GJEPC will facilitate Training and Skilling Centres in many regions is poised to equip locals in the region with industry-specific skills, thereby creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth in the region.”

As India is being positioned as a design driven Jewellery manufacturing hub, the intent of the Central Government is to facilitate new talent to thrive and grow, as well as preserve and promote the cultural heritage of India’s rich legacy in handcrafted and bespoke jewellery.

Under the Kushal Bharat Viksit Bharat motto, this MoU will promote initiatives to bring speed and scale to India's skill ecosystem. The primary objective of the scheme is to enable the recognition of artisans and craftspeople as ‘Vishwakarmas’ making them eligible to avail the benefits under the scheme. GJEPC will impart skill training to registered Vishwakarmas under PM Vishwakarma Yojana for the trade of Goldsmiths across the country.