By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 16: Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh has lauded the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) for the efforts in curbing rural-to-urban migration by supporting rural livelihoods.
Speaking at the 44th Foundation Day celebration of NABARD, organised by its Meghalaya Regional Office, Lyngdoh noted that rural-to-urban migration has been a long-standing issue in Meghalaya, primarily driven by the search for better livelihood opportunities.
However, she acknowledged that interventions by NABARD and other financial bodies have started to reverse this trend by empowering rural communities. “These institutions have guided and partnered with the rural population, fostering their involvement in the cooperative movement, which is essential to India’s progress,” she said.
The Agriculture Minister highlighted that improved credit access, rural infrastructure development, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices are now benefiting Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
Expressing satisfaction with NABARD’s work in Meghalaya, she said, “You are not just helping the government. You are helping farmers gain better market access. This reflects the growth of an empowered citizenry, not just a government initiative.”
Lyngdoh also emphasised the need to support micro-enterprises. “We must invest in them, train them, guide them, and ensure that the financial inclusion master plan addresses all components necessary to truly empower farmers,” she said.
She added that such initiatives are driving transformative change in rural economies.
The event was also attended by NABARD Meghalaya Regional Office General Manager (OIC) JR Blah, Assistant General Manager Philakyntiew Nongkynrih, and representatives from various financial institutions.
As part of the celebration, the Agriculture Minister presented awards to the best-performing Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and Integrated Village Cooperative Societies (IVCS).
