CM Advocates Separate Norms for Hill States in NABARD Allocations.
Push for Green Projects, Rural Value Chains, and Greater Flexibility in Project Implementation.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to adopt state-specific norms for hill states while deciding annual allocations under various schemes. The appeal came during a high-level meeting with NABARD’s Deputy Managing Director, Goverdhan Singh Rawat, who called on the Chief Minister at his official residence, Oak Over, today.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the 11 hill states, including Himachal Pradesh, face unique topographical, ecological, and developmental challenges that merit differentiated treatment. He called for new criteria—such as forest cover, environmental conservation efforts, and greening initiatives—to be included in NABARD’s state-wise allocation framework.
Push for Green Himachal
In alignment with the State Government’s ‘Green Himachal’ vision, the Chief Minister proposed that NABARD should consider ground-mounted solar energy projects eligible for funding under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF). He argued that such projects could enable panchayats to become energy self-sufficient, significantly contributing to the state’s renewable energy goals.
He further recommended the inclusion of electric buses in RIDF-supported projects, saying this would boost sustainable public transport infrastructure in rural and hilly areas.
Strengthening Rural Livelihoods
Stressing the need to enhance rural incomes, the Chief Minister requested NABARD’s support in strengthening value chains in Fisheries and Animal Husbandry, from the farm gate to the consumer. He said robust supply and processing infrastructure was essential to transform these sectors into viable sources of livelihood for rural families.
The CM also called for reforming outdated implementation procedures of NABARD-funded projects. He advocated greater autonomy and flexibility for state governments to make project-specific changes during execution, stating this would allow for more efficient and localized solutions.
Support for Cooperative Sector
During the meeting, NABARD officials raised concerns about challenges faced by cooperative societies due to Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Cooperative Societies Act, which currently restricts certain operational flexibilities. They proposed that Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies (PACS) should be entrusted with milk procurement, rather than forming new societies for the purpose. NABARD also sought state support in accelerating the computerization of PACS to improve transparency and efficiency.
Constructive Dialogue and Assurances
The Chief Minister lauded the efforts of NABARD’s Regional Office for ensuring effective coordination between the State Government and NABARD’s Head Office, helping to fast-track resolution of pending issues.
He assured NABARD officials that the state government would examine all suggestions, particularly those aligned with sustainable rural development and economic growth. “We welcome innovative ideas and interventions that support our vision of a greener, more prosperous Himachal,” the Chief Minister said.
In response, NABARD’s Deputy Managing Director assured that all proposals and concerns raised by the Chief Minister would be conveyed to the apex level and considered in the formulation of future guidelines.
The meeting highlighted a growing synergy between the state and NABARD as they seek to unlock the full potential of rural Himachal through inclusive, green, and cooperative-led development.
