Shimla
The 44th Foundation Day celebrations of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) were held today in a very dignified and enthusiastic atmosphere at NABARD Himachal Pradesh Regional Office, Shimla. The Chief Guest of the program was Shri R. D. Nazim, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Industries, Government of Himachal Pradesh. He was accompanied by NABARD Chief General Manager Dr. Vivek Pathania, General Managers, Deputy General Managers, Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Bank, Kangra Central Cooperative Bank, Joginder Central Cooperative Bank and other officials.
In the program, three major cooperative banks of the state – HPStCB, KCCB and JCCB were honored with certificates and mementos for their excellent financial performance.
Along with this, three Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) were also honored for their innovation and financial discipline.
On this occasion, a presentation was made on the 43 years of NABARD’s growth journey, highlighting the historical background of the institution, its contribution to financial inclusion, women empowerment, agriculture reforms, climate projects and rural infrastructure. It clearly underlined NABARD’s role as a ‘Partner in Transformation of Rural India’.
A mini exhibition was organized at the venue, which was attended by NABARD supported groups and producers. The major products included: traditional Siddu from Shimla district, sanitary napkins manufactured under ‘My Pad My Right’ project from Solan district, handloom products from Saroa OFPO in Mandi district, and herbal handmade soaps prepared by self-help groups. The exhibition showcased the ground level impact of NABARD funded projects and women empowerment, health and entrepreneurship.
The Chief Guest Shri R.D. Nazim, IAS lauded the efforts of NABARD and said that NABARD is the backbone of rural prosperity and financial inclusion in a state like Himachal. Its projects have become a medium of not only economic but also social empowerment.
NABARD Chief General Manager Dr Vivek Pathania said that the 43-year journey of NABARD is not just the progress of an organization but the story of the hopes of millions of villagers. We will continue to move forward on the path of development with the cooperation of the state government and cooperative institutions.
This 44th Foundation Day celebration of NABARD further strengthens the organization’s commitment towards rural development and inclusive growth in the state. NABARD will work with more innovation and partnership in the areas of agriculture, rural infrastructure, women empowerment and micro entrepreneurship in Himachal Pradesh in the coming years.