ITANAGAR, Feb 24: In a significant initiative aimed at strengthening rural marketing infrastructure and enhancing livelihood opportunities for farmers, NABARD laid the foundation stone for a Rural Haat at Balinong village in Changlang district today.
The foundation stone was laid by Kamal Roy, Asstt General Manager (District Development), NABARD. The project is funded by NABARD and will be implemented by Bethel Life Care Charitable Trust (BLCCT) in collaboration with the Balinong Youth Association.
The proposed Rural Haat is envisioned as a comprehensive rural marketplace designed to provide safe, hygienic, and organized vending facilities. The infrastructure will include a market shed with an elevated platform, storage-cum-office space, toilets with water and sanitation facilities, solar-powered lighting systems, and a solid waste disposal compost pit. The establishment of the Haat will address the challenges faced by local farmers who currently sell their produce along roadsides, exposing themselves to harsh weather conditions and traffic hazards.
Addressing the gathering, Roy highlighted NABARD’s commitment to strengthening rural livelihoods through the development of marketing infrastructure and support to both farm and non-farm sectors. He explained the implementation process and emphasized the crucial role of the Rural Haat Management Committee in ensuring effective management, maintenance, and long-term sustainability of the marketplace.
Chandan Prasad, founder and CEO of BLCCT, emphasized the strategic roadside location of the Haat and expressed confidence that it will enhance the sale of local produce while providing convenient access to fresh organic vegetables for consumers.
The Rural Haat is expected to serve as an important market linkage platform, empowering local farmers, promoting organic produce, and strengthening the rural economy of the region.