• Ramachandrappa B M
• Dr. Giridhar K V

Abstract: Strengthening Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and promoting rural employment through various government schemes, programs, and policy initiatives are vital for reducing unemployment and poverty, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, especially in developing countries like India. The MSME sector, comprising over 63 million units, plays a key role in India’s economy by encouraging entrepreneurship and creating jobs with low capital investment, second only to agriculture (Ministry of MSME, 2023). The present study aimed to analyze the impact of the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Scheme on generating rural employment through skill development programs. In this study, Hirekerur Taluk of Haveri District was selected, and data were collected from 158 respondents who are beneficiaries of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. Findings of the study revealed that beneficiaries lacked full awareness of the scheme, had limited digital skills, faced difficulties in accessing credit, and received inadequate government support. However, the scheme showed a statistically significant positive impact on improving participants’ earnings as well as fostering entrepreneurship. The study recommends simplifying the application process, offering accessible training for unskilled individuals, and providing flexible, low-interest credit and subsidies to enhance participation and effectiveness, especially among rural and marginalized communities to promote rural entrepreneurship.

Keywords: Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana, Employment Generation and MSME.

"The PM Vishwakarma Scheme and Its Role in Strengthening Rural Employment and Entrepreneurship: A Study", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 7, page no.e150-e161, July-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2507429.pdf

"The PM Vishwakarma Scheme and Its Role in Strengthening Rural Employment and Entrepreneurship: A Study", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 7, page no. ppe150-e161, July-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2507429.pdf