Kolkata: NABARD Chairman Dr. Shaji Krishnan V. met West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on October 9, 2026, to explore ways to strengthen cooperation between the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and the state government.
The discussions focused on key areas of rural development, including agriculture, rural infrastructure, tourism, the cooperative sector and farmer welfare. Support for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in West Bengal also featured in the meeting.
The interaction highlighted opportunities for NABARD and the state government to work together on initiatives that support rural communities, improve livelihoods and strengthen local economic activities.
Focus on Agriculture and Farmer Welfare
Agriculture and farmer welfare were among the major areas discussed during the meeting. Stronger coordination between NABARD and the state government could help advance rural development programmes and improve support for farming communities.
NABARD plays an important role in promoting agricultural development and providing institutional support for rural credit and infrastructure. Its work also covers initiatives aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods and improving access to development opportunities.
Cooperation in these areas can help address the needs of rural communities and support more inclusive growth across West Bengal.
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Rural Infrastructure and Tourism in Focus
Rural infrastructure was another key subject of discussion. Investments in infrastructure can improve connectivity, support agricultural activities and expand access to essential services in rural areas.
Tourism also featured in the talks, reflecting its potential to create livelihood opportunities and support local economies. Stronger rural tourism activities can benefit small businesses, local entrepreneurs and communities by generating demand for local products and services.
However, the meeting announcement did not specify any project approvals, financial commitments or implementation timelines for these areas.
Support for Self-Help Groups
The meeting also covered support for Self-Help Groups in West Bengal. SHGs play an important role in promoting financial inclusion, encouraging savings and helping members pursue income-generating activities.
Greater institutional support can help these groups strengthen their economic activities and improve livelihood opportunities, particularly for women in rural communities.
NABARD’s engagement with SHGs forms part of its wider focus on rural development and community-based economic initiatives. Further collaboration could help strengthen the support available to such groups in the state.
Strengthening the Cooperative Sector
The cooperative sector was another important area of discussion. Cooperatives can help farmers and rural producers access financial services, organise economic activities and improve their participation in local markets.
Strengthening cooperation between NABARD and the state government could support efforts to improve the capacity of rural institutions and expand development opportunities for farming and rural communities.
The meeting, however, did not announce specific measures or new schemes for the cooperative sector.
NABARD Officials Attend the Meeting
Dr. Shaji Krishnan V. was accompanied by P. K. Bhardwaj, Chief General Manager of NABARD, along with other senior officials of the organisation.
The interaction is expected to deepen NABARD’s engagement with the West Bengal government in areas linked to rural development and inclusive growth.
The meeting brings agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, cooperatives and SHG support into a common discussion on the state’s rural development priorities. The next step will depend on how the two sides translate these discussions into specific initiatives and programmes.
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