Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today lauded the newly launched scheme Rural Infrastructure Assistance to States (RIAS) of NABARD, hoping that the scheme would increase project based financing for various projects like roads, bridges and in-stream storage structure.
The Chief Minister said this during a meeting with NABARD Chairman Dr. G.R. Chintala, who called on Patnaik at his residence today; and discussed issues for strengthening rural infrastructure in the State.
During the discussion, the Chief Minister highlighted massive efforts of the State Government to reduce poverty and ensure rapid infrastructure development in the rural sector.
Keeping the recurring natural disasters in view, Patnaik emphasized the role of Low Cost Credit Support from NABARD through RIDF and LTIF for building disaster resilient rural infrastructure.
Patnaik urged the NABARD to enhance the RIDF assistance to the State.
The NABARD Chairman appreciated the initiatives of the Odisha Government to strengthen infrastructure and various livelihood programmes in farm and non-farm sectors.
During the discussion, Secretary to CM (5-T) VK Pandian and officers of NABARD were present.