The programme was attended by Chief Secretary to the Government of Haryana, Shri Anurag Rastogi, who congratulated NABARD on completing 44 years of dedicated service to the nation and praised the institution for its transformative role in rural India. He described NABARD as a trusted development partner of Haryana and acknowledged its continued support in strengthening rural infrastructure, farmer institutions, cooperative organizations and community-based development initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary emphasized that the transformation of rural Haryana requires coordinated efforts by government departments, financial institutions and grassroots organizations. He underscored the importance of promoting sustainable agriculture, expanding livelihood opportunities, empowering rural youth and women, and building resilient rural communities in alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
Referring to the declaration of 2026 as the International Year of Women Farmers, he stressed the need to recognize and strengthen the contribution of women in agriculture by improving their access to institutional finance, modern technology, skill development, markets and leadership opportunities. He expressed confidence that NABARD would continue to play a significant role in advancing women-led development and promoting inclusive and sustainable rural growth throughout Haryana.
Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Nivedita Tiwary, Chief General Manager of NABARD Haryana Regional Office, highlighted the institution’s extensive contribution to rural development in the state. She informed that under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), NABARD has sanctioned nearly ₹15,056 crore for Haryana and supported 6,175 infrastructure projects, significantly improving rural connectivity, irrigation systems, drinking water facilities and overall economic development.
She further stated that NABARD has strengthened rural institutions through the computerization and digitization of 710 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and the promotion of 131 Farmer Producer Organisations across Haryana. These FPOs have mobilized more than 63,369 farmers, including 14,017 women members, enabling improved access to markets, modern technology and agricultural value chains.
Highlighting NABARD’s commitment to women’s empowerment, the Chief General Manager said that the institution’s skill development programmes have benefited more than 5,010 women since the 2022-23 financial year. According to her, these initiatives have created sustainable livelihood opportunities in dairy farming, food processing, mushroom cultivation, handicrafts, tailoring and several other rural enterprises.
She also informed that 28 Farmer Producer Organisations have been linked with institutional credit amounting to an aggregate of ₹11.12 crore, while Equity Grant Assistance worth ₹60.38 lakh has been extended to nine FPOs. NABARD has also supported climate-resilient agriculture through watershed development, groundwater management, micro-irrigation, Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR), vegetable cluster promotion and several innovative interventions aimed at increasing farmers’ incomes while promoting environmental sustainability.
Reaffirming NABARD’s long-term commitment to rural transformation, the Chief General Manager said the institution would continue to promote innovation, strengthen rural institutions, support women-led development and accelerate sustainable and inclusive growth across Haryana.
During the celebration, NABARD unveiled a Coffee Table Book documenting major developmental initiatives, achievements and the impact of its interventions across the state. A Unit Cost Book was also released to serve as a reference for banks and other stakeholders engaged in credit planning, project appraisal and financing of agriculture and allied sectors.
The programme also recognized outstanding contributions to rural development and institution building. Selected Primary Agricultural Credit Societies, District Central Cooperative Banks, Farmer Producer Organisations, artisans and women entrepreneurs were felicitated for their exemplary performance and commitment to strengthening the rural economy.
An exhibition featuring artisans, Farmer Producer Organisations and OFPOs displayed agricultural produce, processed food products, handicrafts and a wide range of value-added products, reflecting the growing entrepreneurial capabilities of rural producer collectives. The event concluded with a renewed emphasis on the International Year of Women Farmers 2026, reinforcing the importance of women’s leadership, entrepreneurship and active participation in agriculture and allied sectors as key drivers of Haryana’s sustainable rural development.
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