By Mewanshwa Kharshiing
 SHILLONG: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Jowai and the Meghalaya Cooperative Apex Bank (MCAB) Amlarem inaugurated a Farmers Club at Mawngap Village near Amlarem, Jaintia Hills District on May 2.
Teidor Thangkhiew an official of the NABARD bank and Orida Lato, the branch manager of MCAB, Amlarem, and S Mukhim MDC of the area who was also the chief guest were present at the function. Headman of the Kudeng Thymmai village, Ribeni Pohshwet also joined the club.The group of ten members is encouraging more people to join and avail the benefits of being a co-operative. Nagos Pohshna was elected president of the club. Addressing the farmers, NABARD official Teidor Thangkhiew said that they could avail certain facilities like the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) which can be routed through the farmers club.
He further added that the NABARD bank also helps in the setting up of Self Help Groups (SHG) and Joint Liability Groups (JLG) through the Club which will be supported by NABARD for three years. After that the MCAB will follow up their support for proper sustenance. The Bank will also help in organising awareness programmes.
These initiatives are intended to bring a close relationship between the villagers, the banks and other governmental organisations.