Guwahati, February 11, 2025 — In a significant move toward building strategic partnerships for sustainable development, the Pragjyotishpur Recycling Initiative for Development & Environment Cooperative Society Limited (PRIDE COOP) held its first informal meeting with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) at the Regional Office in Guwahati.

The meeting was held on 11th February 2025 and was graced by Mr. Loken Das, Chief General Manager, NABARD, North Eastern Regional Office. Representatives from PRIDE COOP and NABARD came together to engage in a meaningful discussion on avenues of collaboration that could drive climate-resilient livelihoods, environmental sustainability, and inclusive rural development in Assam.

This introductory meeting provided an opportunity for PRIDE COOP to present its vision, mission, and core activities as India’s first climate-focused cooperative, working across eight districts in Assam. PRIDE COOP’s efforts in promoting circular economy models, waste management innovation, and green entrepreneurship were shared with enthusiasm and clarity.

During the discussion, Mr. Loken Das expressed keen interest in PRIDE COOP’s community-centered approach, especially in creating livelihood opportunities through environmental services. He appreciated the initiative’s alignment with NABARD’s own mandate to promote rural prosperity through sustainable and inclusive financing models. NABARD’s deep involvement in supporting self-help groups, farmer-producer organizations, and cooperatives in rural and semi-urban areas makes it a natural institutional ally for PRIDE COOP’s goals.

Key themes explored during the meeting included:

• Training and capacity-building for rural youth in waste management and green skills.
  
• Financial and technical support mechanisms for setting up micro-enterprises and recycling units.
  
• Integration of PRIDE COOP’s circular economy model into NABARD-supported rural development schemes.
  
• Potential for pilot projects in selected districts under NABARD’s climate adaptation and sustainability programs.
  

PRIDE COOP also shared its operational strategy and expansion plans, emphasizing the role of multi-stakeholder partnerships in achieving long-term impact. The team underscored how support from institutions like NABARD could enable scalable, grassroots-led climate action that directly benefits communities and enhances regional resilience.

The meeting concluded on a positive and forward-looking note, with both sides expressing interest in continuing dialogue and exploring formal partnerships in the near future. PRIDE COOP intends to follow up with detailed proposals and project concepts that align with NABARD’s priorities.