Mohali: Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema on Friday released NABARD’s State Focus Paper for 2026-27 at the State Credit Seminar organised in Mohali. The document lays out an extensive credit roadmap aimed at accelerating growth across agriculture, MSMEs, infrastructure, renewable energy, and social sectors in Punjab.
Addressing the gathering, Harpal Cheema highlighted NABARD’s crucial role in strengthening the state’s economy. He said the institution has significantly contributed to development in agriculture, education, and social sectors through its diverse lending and credit initiatives.
The Finance Minister Harpal Cheema informed that the State Focus Paper estimates a total priority sector credit potential of ₹3,08,66,614 lakh for Punjab. The projections encompass farm credit, agricultural infrastructure, allied activities, MSMEs, export credit, education, housing, renewable energy, social infrastructure, and other key areas. He stated that this comprehensive credit blueprint would help align institutional lending with Punjab’s developmental goals.
Honoured to be the Chief Guest at @NABARDOnline Chandigarh State Credit Seminar 2026-27.
Awarded outstanding FPOs, SHGs and PACS from Punjab and encouraged them to scale up their efforts for stronger rural livelihoods.
NABARD continues to play a pivotal role in transforming… pic.twitter.com/Jy000TlKue
— Adv Harpal Singh Cheema (@HarpalCheemaMLA) February 20, 2026
Harpal Cheema Flags Groundwater Crisis Amid Food Security Success
Speaking about Punjab’s contribution to national food security, Harpal Cheema noted that the state has played a vital role in making India self-reliant in food production. However, he pointed out that this achievement has led to serious challenges, particularly groundwater depletion. He revealed that 117 out of 151 blocks in the state have been categorized as dark zones due to excessive groundwater extraction.
Referring to initiatives undertaken by the Bhagwant Mann-led government, Harpal Cheema said efforts are underway to promote canal irrigation and construct small water channels, known as khalas, to help restore groundwater levels. He emphasized the need for crop diversification to conserve water resources and urged NABARD to extend greater support for such initiatives.
Finance Minister Emphasizes Safe Environment for Economic Growth
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to maintaining a secure and investor-friendly environment, the Finance Minister Harpal Cheema stated that a recent meeting of senior police officials and members of the Punjab State Traders’ Commission was held to ensure law and order and send a strong message to anti-social elements. He stressed that a safe and stable business climate is essential for economic growth.
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The seminar was attended by B. Ramesh Babu, Chief General Manager of NABARD; Ritu Aggarwal, IAS, Secretary Cooperation; Manohar Lal, General Manager, NABARD; Pankaj Setia, General Manager, RBI Chandigarh; G.K. Negi, Chairman, Punjab Gramin Bank; and Guriqbal Singh, General Manager and Officer-in-Charge, NABARD Haryana. Representatives of SLBC, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) were also present.
During the event, progressive Farmer Producer Organisations, Self-Help Groups, and dragon fruit growers were honoured for their contributions to the state’s agricultural and rural development.