Tuki praise for BARD

From our correspomdent

Itagar, May 7: Aruchal Pradesh Chief Minister bam Tuki has acknowledged the role of BARD in expanding infrastructure network in the state through RIDF and in implementing various development projects at grassroots level.Iugurating the BARD’s Office cum Residential Complex here Wednesday evening, Tuki mentioned that during his interactions with villagers across the state, he has heard about one institution doing something for them, which is BARD.He also mentioned that among the fincial institutions operating in the state, BARD’s contribution is far greater than any other institution and expressed his wish of receiving more funding under RIDF & outside RIDF.He also expected advisory support from BARD in future years.While recalling his association with BARD, the chief minister congratulated the bank’s chairman Dr. H K Bhanwala for being the first to visit the state.Dr. Bhanwala thanked the state government for playing a major role in allotting land and construction of the office cum residential complex.He said that while BARD has already sanctioned projects involving fincial assistance of more than Rs. 1200 crore, with the coming up of its own office cum residential complex, it would be much easier and convenient for BARD to broaden it’s horizon in the state.He assured the chief minister that BARD’s cooperation with the state government would reach newer heights in the coming years.On Tuesday, Dr Bhanwala and BARD DMD H R Dave called on Tuki Minister and had a meeting with the senior state government officials.A presentation was made from BARD’s side followed by a presentation from state government side by the Secretary Planning, Som Chombay.During the discussions which followed the presentations, Chairman, BARD opined that RIDF fincing being lower than market borrowing rates, state government needs to consider borrowing to maximum possible limit in the state.Tuki proposed to draw up criteria of selection of projects to be prioritized under RIDF and requested BARD to consider funding of projects outside the borrowing limit set by the Centre.In this regard, Dr. Bhanwala suggested that the state government may consider availing fincial assistance through fincially sound State PSUs/ Boards.Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi  mentioned that fincing of road projects are a priority for the state and emphasised on the need to draw a pragmatic mapping of connectivity requirements in such parts of the state where improved road connectivity would lead to better price realisation  for agriculture and horticulture crops which are in demand.Appreciating the efforts of BARD in identifying gaps in infrastructure in critical areas, he also suggested that there is a need to focus on creation of marketing & storage infrastructure and promotion of tourism.He also proposed to take the help of BCONS in mapping the potential of comprehensive development of the State, especially in agriculture & horticulture.