Patna: Farmers in Bihar will soon receive Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) at zero percent interest, with the government set to take a decision on the matter. Cooperative Minister Prem Kumar announced this while inaugurating the Chief Minister’s Adarsh PACS Promotion Scheme program at Dashrath Manjhi Research and Planning Institute in Patna. During the event, 46 top-performing Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) selected for 2024-25 were honored. The presidents of these PACS were felicitated with shawls.
Sarai Ranjan Western PACS of Samastipur district, recognized for outstanding work, received the first prize of Rs 15 lakh. Matiyani Sonapur PACS from Begusarai district secured the second prize of Rs 10 lakh, while Miyapur PACS from Bairia block of West Champaran was awarded Rs 7 lakh as the third prize. The minister assured that any challenges faced by PACS in the future would be addressed at the business board level. He commended the dedication of officials working tirelessly to support farmers and strengthen cooperative systems in Bihar.
The minister emphasized that the Chief Minister’s Adarsh PACS Promotion Scheme will enhance the efficiency of PACS and boost their morale. He noted that these improvements will directly benefit local farmers and villagers by ensuring better services and financial support. The recognition of PACS through awards will further encourage their involvement in cooperative development.
He also informed that the United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives, and Bihar will organize various programs throughout the year to celebrate this global recognition. A booklet outlining the standard operating procedures for these events was released at the function. The minister encouraged widespread participation in the International Cooperative Year celebrations. The event was attended by departmental secretary Dharmendra Singh, registrar of cooperative societies Inayat Khan, and other senior officials.
