ITANAGAR, 30 May: Governor KT Parnaik on Saturday urged the NABARD to ensure timely and uninterrupted flow of credit to the agricultural sector, small-scale enterprises, cottage and village industries, artisans, and rural entrepreneurs, in order to enable them to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.

During a meeting with the NABARD’s Itanagar-based Regional Office General Manager SV Ranga Rao at the Lok Bhavan here, the governor emphasised the vital role of the NABARD in facilitating sustainable agriculture and integrated rural development.

Referring to his recent interaction  with women self-help groups (SHGs) in Boleng, the governor observed that the women of Arunachal Pradesh are hardworking, resilient, and enterprising. He noted that with proper guidance, skill development, and access to financial resources, they can emerge as powerful agents of socioeconomic transformation.

Highlighting the importance of financial inclusion, the governor stressed the need to strengthen microfinance institutions, SHGs, and rural banking networks to ensure that financial services reach the underserved and economically weaker sections of society. He said that empowering rural communities, particularly women and youths, through accessible credit and livelihood opportunities is essential for achieving inclusive and sustainable development in Arunachal.

Rao on his part assured the governor that the NABARD would continue to work with dedication and commitment to meet the aspirations and expectations of the people of Arunachal, particularly those belonging to the rural and agrarian communities. (Lok Bhavan)