NABARD conclave focuses on strengthening cooperatives
NABARD concluded a three-day State Level Cooperative Conclave and Exhibition at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Auditorium on Thursday, as part of the International Year of Cooperatives. The event ran from December 31, 2025, to January 2, 2026.
The conclave served as a platform for artisans, farmers, and women-led Self-Help Groups to showcase traditional products and rural enterprises.
The program was inaugurated on December 31 by Minister for Agriculture, Cooperation and Marketing Kinjarapu Atchannaidu. The exhibition featured 15 stalls set up by Weavers’ Cooperative Societies, Farmer Producer Organizations, and SHGs.
Handloom products, including Ponduru Khadi, Kuppadam sarees, and Jamdani fabrics, drew visitors. Kalamkari art, seashell crafts, jute products, and organic millet-based food items were also on display.
Addressing the valedictory session, NABARD District Development Manager Ramesh Krishna said cooperatives continued to play a vital role in the rural economy. He said NABARD was supporting the sector through refinance, computerisation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies, and capacity building initiatives.
He said NABARD had extended refinance support of Rs 11,000 crore to cooperatives during the 2025–26 financial year.
Mr. Krishna urged Ponduru Khadi weavers to register as authorised users under the Geographical Indication tag with the Khadi and Village Industries Commission to protect the identity of the fabric and improve market access.
NABARD also announced a grant of Rs 11.25 lakh to the District Rural Development Agency for organising the upcoming Sikkolu Dwacra Bazar to promote products of SHGs and FPOs.
The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and shields to participating artisans. Officials from the handlooms department, NABARD, NGOs, FPOs, and weaver communities attended the programme.