Expressnews
Mumbai, July 12, 2025: The National Bank forAgriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) markedits 44th Foundation Day with a commemorative event atChennai, celebrating its journey as a pivotal institutionin India’s rural development. The occasion broughttogether key policymakers, state officials, bankingleaders, and grassroots innovators to reflect onNABARD’s enduring mission and unveil a new chapterof forward-looking initiatives.
The celebrations were graced by Shri M. Nagaraju,Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Govt. of India; Shri N. Muruganandam, Chief Secretary,Government of Tamil Nadu; Shri Shaji K V Chairman, NABARD apart from Sri. G S Rawat and Sri A K Sood Deputy Managing Directors of NABARD. The event alsosaw participation of MDs of Indian Bank and Indian Overseas Bank apart from NABARD’s top leadershipand senior officials from central and state governments.
A thought-provoking panel discussion on “FosteringRural Enterprises for Inclusive Growth” set the tone forthe evening, highlighting how rural entrepreneurshipcan serve as a key driver of job creation, innovation, andequitable development. An exhibition showcasingtraditional crafts, agro-products, and rural innovationsreflected the dynamic enterprise of India’s villages.
Shri Shaji K.V., Chairman, NABARD, in hisaddress, stated, “NABARD’s 44-year journey is atestament to our unwavering commitment to ruraltransformation. From enabling access to finance andinfrastructure to fostering innovation and resilience, ourwork has touched millions of lives. As India acceleratestoward inclusive growth, NABARD is prepared to leadfrom the front through digital transformation, supportfor rural enterprises, and mission-led programmes thatunlock grassroots potential. Our focus now is to scalehigh-impact solutions, nurture entrepreneurialecosystems, and ensure sustainability remains at theheart of development.”
Shri M. Nagaraju, Secretary DFS, GoI, laudedNABARD’s enduring impact:
“For over four decades, NABARD has served as acornerstone of India’s rural development strategy. Itsinitiatives reflect the government’s vision for aninclusive and future-ready rural economy. As we moveinto an era defined by climate challenges and digitalopportunities, NABARD’s role in strengthening rurallivelihoods and institutions will be more critical thanever.”
Shri N. Muruganandam, Chief Secretary Tamil Nadu acknowledged NABARD’s contributions in TamilNadu, saying that, “NABARD’s support has beeninstrumental in enhancing rural livelihoods and buildingself-reliant communities across Tamil Nadu. Its effortsin empowering SHGs, supporting infrastructure, andpromoting inclusive finance are deeply appreciated.”
The evening witnessed the launch of several strategicinitiatives aimed at expanding NABARD’s outreach anddeepening its development impact:
• Inauguration of NABARD’s Sub-office in Leh,Ladakh, reinforcing its commitment to reach India’smost remote regions with credit, capacity building,and development finance.
• Launch of NABARD’s official WhatsApp Channel, toenhance real-time communication and delivermarket advisories, FPO information, and productupdates directly to rural stakeholders.
• Radio Jingle for Financial Inclusion, targeting ruraland semi-urban listeners across AIR andcommunity radio networks with awarenessmessages on savings, credit, and insurance.
• Graduated Rural Income Generation Programme(GRIP), a livelihood intervention for ultra-poorrural households using returnable grants andcapacity support to transition them into formaleconomic activity.
• RuralTech CoLab Portal, an open digital innovationplatform enabling startups, research institutes, andtech developers to co-create, test, and scale rural-centric technologies.
• Launch of “NIVARAN”, a dedicated InternalGrievance Redressal System for Rural CooperativeBanks, offering 24×7 digital access for complaintresolution and governance improvement.
The evening also featured the premiere of “Green Roots:NABARD’s Journey Towards Climate Resilience”, adocumentary chronicling NABARD’s decades-long workin promoting sustainable agriculture and environmentalstewardship.
Additionally, the following publications were released:
• “RIDF@30: A Journey of Rural Transformation” –celebrating 30 years of the Rural InfrastructureDevelopment Fund and its role in reviving ruralconnectivity, irrigation, education, and healthinfrastructure.
• “Grameen Bharat Mahotsav” Coffee Table Book –capturing the vibrant spirit of the January 2025event at Bharat Mandapam, showcasing ruralIndia’s entrepreneurial and cultural vibrancy.
• “Beyond Numbers 2025” – a narrative impact reporthighlighting NABARD’s multi-dimensional workacross credit, climate, digital, and institutionalecosystems.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a host of visionaryinitiatives, NABARD’s 44th Foundation Day reinforcedits stature as a vital national institution powering India’srural future. The event reflected not only theachievements of the past but also the momentum for theroad ahead rooted in impact, inclusion, and innovation.
