NABARD sanctions Rs 15,056 crore to Haryana for rural development
Chandigarh, July 21
Haryana has witnessed one of its biggest rural infrastructure expansions with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development sanctioning Rs 15,056 crore under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund, supporting 6,175 infrastructure projects on irrigation, rural roads, drinking water facilities and other critical assets.
The achievements were highlighted during NABARD's 45th foundation day celebrations, where Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi was invited as the chief guest.
Rastogi said the institution has emerged as a key partner in accelerating rural transformation and strengthening the state's agricultural economy.
Describing NABARD as a catalyst for inclusive rural development, Rastogi said the state's future growth depends on stronger rural infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, financial inclusion and empowered community institutions.
He stressed that government departments, financial institutions and grassroots organisations must work together to build resilient villages in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Recalling his earlier tenure as Finance Secretary, Rastogi said he had the opportunity to work closely with NABARD and witnessed first-hand the institution's constructive role in supporting the state's development.
He said NABARD's financial assistance at concessional interest rates has enabled the timely execution of several critical rural infrastructure projects, significantly benefiting Haryana's farmers and rural communities.
The Chief Secretary said the government is committed to digitising all Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) with the necessary technical support to make them more efficient, transparent and accessible.
He said the government is also working to ensure that every PACS becomes financially viable and profitable so that these institutions can function as strong pillars of the rural cooperative ecosystem.
NABARD's livelihood promotion programmes have equally focussed on women. Since 2022-23, more than 5,010 rural women have received skill training in dairy farming, mushroom cultivation, food processing, tailoring, handicrafts and other income-generating activities, creating sustainable self-employment opportunities across the state.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The focus on women's skill training is commendable—over 5,010 rural women trained in dairy, mushroom cultivation, food processing, and handicrafts since 2022-23. This is real empowerment, not just slogans. Haryana needs more such livelihood programs for women in villages. 👩🌾
Good initiative, but I have one concern—digitising PACS is great for transparency, but many rural areas still lack reliable internet connectivity. Without last-mile infrastructure, this digitisation might remain theoretical. Hope state government addresses this practical challenge before rolling it out fully.
NABARD has always been a silent hero for rural India. Concessional interest rates for critical projects like irrigation and roads—this is exactly what our farmers need. But I'd like to see more accountability in how these funds are utilised at the ground level. Bahut badhiya step though! 💪
As someone from a small town in Haryana, I can vouch that rural roads are in pathetic condition in many places. This fund is a welcome move. Also, the emphasis on making PACS financially viable is crucial—these societies are the backbone of rural credit. Hope the execution matches the ambition. 🌾
A very positive development for Haryana's rural economy. The mention of Viksit Bharat @2047 vision is aspirational. But I feel the state should also focus on sustainable agriculture practices alongside infrastructure—water conservation, organic farming, etc. Only roads and water won't solve everything. Just a thought!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.