Patna: Rural Development and Information & Public Relations Minister Shrawon Kumar directed officials to expedite proposals for land identified at 725 locations across Bihar for the construction of rural markets, or haat bazaars.
The direction was issued during a meeting chaired by Kumar to review development schemes being implemented with support from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
Three Models Proposed
The proposed rural markets will follow three models based on land availability. The markets will cover 20 decimals, 50 decimals or one acre.
Proposals for markets larger than 20 decimals have already been received from seven districts — Araria, Banka, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Madhepura, Supaul and Samastipur.
The minister directed officials to prepare and submit proposals from the remaining districts to NABARD without delay.
The Centre has proposed a maximum allocation of Rs 40 lakh for each rural market. A proposal seeking an increase in the funding limit has also been sent to the Union Ministry of Rural Development.
Focus On Rural Producers
According to the Rural Development Department, the markets are expected to make it easier for members of self-help groups, including Jivika Didis, to transport and sell their products directly in rural markets.
Special facilities will be provided for Jivika Didis at the proposed market sites. The initiative is expected to strengthen local market access and support economic activity in rural areas.
NABARD Chief General Manager Gautam Kumar Singh said the organisation would continue to support rural development and the rural economy in Bihar.
He said NABARD would work with the state government’s Rural Development Department and provide technical, financial and institutional support as required.
Review Of Development Schemes
The meeting also reviewed the progress of ongoing and proposed schemes supported by NABARD.
Officials discussed potential areas for new interventions and ways to accelerate development in Bihar’s rural regions through coordination between the state government and NABARD.
