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National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), West Bengal Regional Office, Kolkata celebrated International Women’s Day 2020. The programme was graced by Manoshi Roy Chowdhury, Co-Chairman, Techno India Group, Kolkata. Speaking on the occasion, Subrata Mandal, Chief General Manager, NABARD, WB RO, highlighted that NABARD has been instrumental in initiating the largest women empowerment and inclusion through the ‘SHG-Bank Linkage Programme’ in the country from 1992. This endeavour has made it possible for one crore SHGs, mainly women and more than 12 crore families to get associated with the formal banking system. It has further led to the social liberation and financial independence of women having a very positive impact in the rural ecosystem. Further, NABARD’s intervention in digitisation of women SHGs through ‘eShakti Project’ has promoted transparency of group operations, accountability of members and accuracy of financial records enabling them to access technology, allowing them to access bank credit from the mainstream banking system.Having recognised the outstanding achievement in their respective fields, NABARD felicitated a few successful women SHG leaders engaged in facilitating credit, social security, health, sanitation. An exhibition cum sale of products made by women SHG members and other rural artisans was organised in the NABARD office premises to provide them with a marketing opportunity and to create visibility of their products. Women Members of NABARD were also appreciated for their valuable contribution to the goals of NABARD in bringing rural prosperity.