Patna: The state govt has identified 725 locations for the development of rural haats to provide farmers, self-help groups and local entrepreneurs better market access for their products.Reviewing a meeting on the convergence of development schemes between the rural development department and Nabard on Monday, rural development minister and information & public relations minister Shrawan Kumar said three standard models have been approved for the haats to ensure uniformity across the state. The models cover areas of 20 decimals, 50 decimals and one acre.In the first phase, one rural haat of 20-49 decimal size will be constructed in selected locations with financial support from Nabard. A Google Sheet has been shared with all districts for uploading location details online, the minister said.Shrawan Kumar said proposals for rural haats larger than 20 decimals have been received from Araria, Banka, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Madhepura, Supaul and Samastipur. Proposals from the remaining districts will be submitted to Nabard soon.At present, the Centre has proposed assistance of up to Rs 40 lakh for each rural haat. The state has requested the Union ministry of rural development to increase the allocation.The scheme also includes special provisions for residents of hilly areas, Scheduled Tribe communities and goat-rearing projects. A separate work plan has been prepared to promote dairy goat farming.Emphasising the need for effective implementation, Shrawan Kumar said the haats would help Jeevika Didis market their products directly and access wider markets. “Special facilities will be provided for the Didis in these haats,” he said.Nabard chief general manager Gautam Kumar Singh said the organisation remained committed to supporting the rural development department through technical, financial and institutional assistance. He also assured cooperation in implementing livelihood, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and rural infrastructure development initiatives.
