By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, September 16, 2021: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday sought enhancement of fund from NABARD for building disaster resilient rural infrastructure in the state.

Underscoring the need for strengthening rural infrastructure in the State, Patnaik told Nabard chairman Dr. G.R. Chintala on Thursday, when the later called on the chief minister at Naveen Niwas.

Keeping the frequent natural disasters in view, Patnaik emphasised the need for Low Cost Credit Support from NABARD through RIDF and LTIF for building disaster resilient rural infrastructure.

The chief minister also lauded the newly launched scheme Rural Infrastructure Assistance to States (RIAS) and hoped that the scheme will increase project based financing for various projects like roads, bridges and in-stream storage structure.

During the discussion, the chief minister highlighted massive efforts of the State Government to reduce poverty and ensure rapid infrastructure development in rural sector.

Dr. Chintala appreciated the initiatives of the State to strengthen infrastructure and various livelihood programmes in farm and non-farm sectors.

During the discussion, Secretary to CM (5-T) Shri V.K. Pandian and officers of NABARD were present.