GAYA JI, Sept. 19 -- The Union ministry of micro, small & medium enterprises (MSME) organised the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Mega Conclave in Bodh Gaya, in which over 2,500 beneficiaries from Bihar and adjoining states participated. Union minister of MSME Jitan Ram Manjhi said significant progress had been achieved, including in Bihar's MSME sector through various schemes and initiatives. The PM Vishwakarma Yojana, launched on September 17, 2023, by PM Modi and aimed at empowering traditional artisans and craftsmen through recognition, skills, and prosperity, had registered 30 lakh beneficiaries in two years. Of these, 23 lakh had received free skill training, 8 lakh toolkits had been delivered and loans worth Rs.4,100 crore sanctioned to 5 lakh artisans without any collateral. Manjhi said in Bihar alone, 1.62 lakh artisans were registered, with 1.05 lakh trained and loans worth Rs.160 crore given to nearly 19,000 beneficiaries. Over 92% of the state's beneficiaries belonged to SC, ST, and OBC categories, with women comprising 33%. Union minister of state Shobha Karandlaje inspired women to pursue entrepreneurship, highlighting their empowerment as the key to a brighter future. Bihar industry minister Nitish Mishra, cooperative minister Prem Kumar, SC & ST welfare minister Janak Ram, MSME joint secretary Milind Ramteke, additional secretary Rajneesh spoke on different aspects of the schemes....