National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) had provided financial assistance of Rs 1,309 crore in West Bengal during 2007-08.
Total assistance by way of refinance to banks and direct financing to the West Bengal government during 2007-08 was 12 per cent higher over Rs 1,168.69 crore in 2006-07, NABARD Chief General Manager P Mohanaiah told reporters here today.
Out of the total amount provided, investment credit in agricultural and allied activities stood at Rs 521.23 crore, followed by Rural Infrastructure Development Fund at Rs 397.28 crore.
Crop loans and other short term credit accounted for Rs 390.86 crore.
For 2008-09, NABARD has estimated a credit potential of Rs 13,410 crore under the priority sector for West Bengal.
The thrust areas for 2008-09, include revival of short term and long term cooperative credit structure, product diversification under RIDF and other programmes.
Source:http://economictimes.indiatimes.com,07-04-08