Srinagar, Dec 21: In a major recognition for its leading role in the development of agricultural economy and its allied infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir, J&K Bank has been bestowed with ‘Development Leadership Award 2023’.
The Bank’s MD & CEO Baldev Prakash today received the award at the hands of Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Arjun Munda – who was also the Chief Guest – in presence of Minister of Animal Husbandry (Uttarakhand) Saurabh Bahugana, EX-CJI and former Governor of Kerala Justice P Sathasivam, Ex-Agriculture Minister (Haryana) O P Dhankar and Chairman (ICFA) Dr M J Khan on the second day of 14th Agriculture Leadership Conclave 2023 organized by Agriculture Today Group in New Delhi. Zonal Head (Delhi) Rakesh Magotra also accompanied the MD & CEO at the award function.
Notably, the citation read on the occasion recognized the Bank’s leading role in farmer empowerment besides development of sustainable agricultural and allied practices in J&K. “The prestigious Development Leadership Award 2023 to J&K Bank rightfully recognizes the Bank’s efforts, under Mr. Baldev Prakash’s visionary leadership, in reaching the unreached through innovative programs. His commitment to farmers’ empowerment through exercise of their choice has enhanced J&K Bank’s role as a leader in Agri-financial sector scripting not only tales of personal accomplishments but the very development of sustainable agricultural and allied practices in J&K”, said the citation.
While thanking the honourable dignitaries and organizers for the prestigious award that acknowledges the Bank’s avowed commitment to empowerment of communities at the award-giving ceremony, MD Baldev Prakash said, “This award is a testament as well as a tribute to the dedication and missionary zeal of our staff on ground that translates not only in the welfare of communities across our operational geographies especially J&K but serves best the interests of the institution also.”
Earlier in the day, MD & CEO Baldev Prakash also addressed the inaugural function of the Agriculture Leadership Conclave 2023, wherein he highlighted the Bank’s pivotal role in bringing about positive changes in the lives of millions of people especially those engaged in the agricultural and allied activities in J&K and other parts of the country.
He said, “Currently, our total exposure in the agriculture sector stands at an impressive Rs 8,921 Crores with a commendable contribution of 80% of total agricultural lending in the UT (As on September 30, 2023). While figures are vital indicators of our credit outreach, we remain focused on the financial empowerment of farmers. Our goal is to boost their sense of ownership and autonomous decision-making by providing end-to-end financial solutions.”
“Looking ahead, with Union Government’s ambitious goals for enhancing the farmers’ incomes, we are ready to contribute our part pro-actively, for, our journey in transforming the agro-economy is also a testament to our unwavering commitment towards the welfare of our communities”, he added.