Raipur: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Chhattisgarh Regional Office released the State Focus Paper (SFP) for 2026–27 during a credit seminar held on Wednesday. The paper estimates a credit potential of ₹1.45 lakh crore for the state’s priority sectors, marking a 23% increase over the previous year. This document will guide banks in preparing their annual credit plans.
Event Highlights and Key Participants
The Focus Paper was formally unveiled by Shahla Nigar, Agriculture Production Commissioner and Principal Secretary (Agriculture Development and Farmers’ Welfare).
Representatives from the state government, banks, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and other institutions attended the seminar. Discussions focused on district-wise and sector-wise credit potential and strategies to enhance credit flow at the grassroots level.
State Focus Paper: A Roadmap for Farmers, SHGs, and Entrepreneurs
Shahla Nigar highlighted that the State Focus Paper serves as a clear roadmap for both banks and government departments.
She emphasized coordinated efforts to ensure timely delivery of institutional credit to:
- Small and marginal farmers
- Tribal families
- Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
- Rural entrepreneurs
The Focus Paper assesses credit potential across agriculture and allied sectors, MSMEs, fisheries, dairy, forestry, renewable energy, and education.
Special focus has been placed on:
- Climate-resilient agriculture
- Watershed-based development
- Strengthening and computerization of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS)
- Development of rural infrastructure
NABARD’s Commitment to Rural Development
D.K. Gawali, Chief General Manager of NABARD Chhattisgarh, stated that the State Focus Paper reflects extensive consultations and district-level assessments.
He assured that NABARD would continue supporting the state through:
- Refinancing facilities
- Infrastructure financing under the RIDF
- Financial inclusion initiatives
- Other developmental programs
The seminar concluded with a resolve among stakeholders to enhance credit absorption capacity, strengthen rural infrastructure, and ensure inclusive development across Chhattisgarh.
