New Delhi: The Members of Parliament in Lok Sabha today demanded special focused attention for Northeastern region vis-a-vis the functioning of the National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (NABARD). Participating in the debate on The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Amendment) Bill, 2017, Congress MP Vincent Pala wondered why during the last three years there was no amount sanctioned for states like Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Manipur. He said banking norms should be relaxed especially to help farmers in Northeast. The Shillong MP wondered why no loan of financial assistance was provided to local farmers there growing turmeric. He also demanded that pottery makers in Northeast should be given financial assistance. Among others speaking on the Bill, Badruddin Ajmal (AIUDF) and Kamakhya Prasad Tasa (BJP) also demanded adequate attention to Northeast. Participating in the debate, Ramesh Bidhuri (BJP) said the new amendments in the NABARD Act would help the rural folks and prevent urbanisation. He also flayed the ‘freebies’ culture allegedly unleashed during the Congress regime and said the amended law would also help small time enterpreneurs and manufacturers. Konda Vishweshwar Reddy (TRS) demanded there should be adequate steps to help farmers in Telangana state as in some parts there is reverse migration. (UNI)