The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) celebrated its 35th foundation day here on Tuesday.
Rural Development Minister Badrinarayan Patra graced the occasion as chief guest while Water Resources Secretary PK Jena, RBI GM and OIC PK Das, SBI CGM BVG Reddy, UCO Bank GM and SlBC convenor Anup Kumar graced as other guests. Representatives of self-help groups (SHGs), farmers’ clubs and NGOs, individuals and bankers were present.
The Nabard presented awards to various partners on the occasion. Its Odisha Regional Office got the best performance award.
Nabard CGM SK Kale explained various initiatives taken by the Nabard, Odisha Region for the development of the State.
Minister Patra said the Nabard was a unique institution which has effected development even in the most challenging eco system. He urged for appropriate policy measures for reducing inequality in farm and non-farm sector.
“Nabard should continue its proactive role in the policy making, advocacy and implementation, especially in the context of food security and farm sector,” he said.
While appreciating Nabard initiatives like participatory approach in watershed development and natural resources management, the Minister advised that the Nabard continue to experiment with such innovative models of project implementation and credit delivery.