Leh, March 24: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development has estimated a Priority Sector credit potential of ₹1,427.84 crore for the Union Territory of Ladakh for the financial year 2026–27.
The projection was unveiled in the UT Focus Paper 2026–27, released during a Credit Seminar in Leh.
Focus Paper Released at Credit Seminar
The Focus Paper was released by Ashish Kundra, Chief Secretary of Ladakh, in the presence of senior officials, bankers, and stakeholders.
The seminar served as a platform to discuss strategies for sustainable and inclusive development in the region.
Call for Capacity Building and Institutional Support
In his keynote address, Ashish Kundra emphasized:
- Capacity building and training of cooperatives
- Strengthening credit linkages with banks
- Establishment of a Project Management Unit (PMU)
- Formation of a consultative group for better coordination
He also stressed targeted interventions for income-generating activities in Vibrant Villages and appreciated NABARD’s ongoing efforts.
NABARD Reaffirms Commitment to Ladakh’s Growth
Vikas Mittal, General Manager & Officer-in-Charge, NABARD, highlighted the institution’s focus on:
- Rural credit flow
- Agriculture and allied sectors
- MSMEs
- Rural tourism
He emphasized collaborative planning and targeted interventions to unlock Ladakh’s economic potential.
Key Sectors Identified for Growth
The Focus Paper outlines sector-wise credit projections with emphasis on:
- Agriculture and allied activities
- Rural tourism
- MSMEs and non-farm sectors
Special focus areas include:
- Strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
- Expanding horticulture (seabuckthorn, apricot)
- Promoting handloom and handicrafts with GI tagging and structured marketing
Innovative Interventions Highlighted
A presentation was also made on “Automated Ice Reservoirs”, a NABARD-supported initiative aimed at improving water resource management in Ladakh’s unique climate.
Boost to Inclusive and Sustainable Development
Urmil Lata highlighted NABARD’s role in driving inclusive development through:
- Value chain development in the pashmina sector
- Promotion of GI-based products
- Natural resource management initiatives, including artificial glaciers
These efforts are expected to:
- Enhance livelihoods
- Strengthen community institutions
- Build climate-resilient rural economies
