Nabard launches RuPay Kisan cards

National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) today rolled out RuPay Kisan Card and RuPay Debit Card here today.
"This is the first time that RuPay Card, which is in the nature of ATM cum Debit Card, is being issued by any cooperative bank in the state of Haryana," said Nabard Chief General Manager (Haryana) D V Deshpande.
He said the issue of RuPay cards by cooperative banks will enable them to improve their customer service and bring it on par with any other bank to farmers and other customers.
Meanwhile, Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda asked Nabard to increase the refinance given to cooperative banks from 50 per cent to 75 per cent.

Speaking on the occasion of its 33rd Foundation Day here today, Hooda said reducing groundwater level and shrinkage of fertile land posed big challenges which could be met by promoting piped and drip irrigation, constructing green houses, promoting dairy and techniques of vertical farming.
Hooda asked Nabard to work at the micro level for the expansion of these techniques and said it should provide finance for setting up water bodies in the state.
He said while Kisan Clubs have been set up in all sub-divisions of the state, there is a need to set up Kisan Clubs in all villages.

"Nabard should extend a helping hand in doing so. These clubs would act as a bridge between NGOs, self-help groups, farmer groups," he added.