State Finance Minister Harpal Cheema revealed NABARD’s State Focus Paper for 2026-27 at a seminar in Mohali, highlighting a severe groundwater crisis in 117 Punjab blocks. The paper outlines a credit roadmap for growth in agriculture, MSMEs, infrastructure, renewable energy, and social sectors. Minister Cheema praised NABARD for its role in boosting Punjab’s economy through various lending schemes.
The State Focus Paper projects a total priority sector credit potential of Rs 3,08,66,614 lakh for Punjab, covering various sectors like agriculture, education, and renewable energy. Minister Cheema emphasized Punjab’s historical contribution to national food security but noted the depletion of groundwater resources, with 117 blocks declared as dark zones due to over-extraction. Initiatives by the government include promoting canal irrigation and crop diversification to conserve water resources.
Minister Cheema reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a trader- and investor-friendly environment, highlighting recent efforts to ensure a secure business climate in Punjab through collaboration with the Punjab State Traders’ Commission and law enforcement agencies.
