RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND (RIDF)
What is RIDF?
The Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) was established by the Government of India in 1995-96 to provide loans to State Governments for ongoing rural infrastructure projects. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) maintains the funds released under RIDF.
The RIDF was initially created with a sum of Rs 2,000 crore from commercial banks. The cumulative allocation for RIDF has reached ₹ 4,58,410.71 crore, including ₹ 18,500 crore under Bharat Nirman. For 2022-23, the allocation under RIDF XXVIII was ₹ 40,001.98 crore.
Activities under RIDF
The Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) supports a range of activities aimed at developing and improving rural infrastructure in India. The funds provided through RIDF are typically utilized for projects that contribute to the overall development and well-being of rural areas
The following are the activities:
- Construction of water storage structures, like ponds and tanks.
- Development of irrigation facilities to enhance agricultural productivity.
- Implementation of watershed management projects
- Construction and improvement of rural roads and bridges.
- Upgradation of existing roads to facilitate better connectivity.
- Installation of drinking water supply systems in rural areas.
- Construction of water treatment plants and distribution networks.
- Construction and improvement of school buildings in rural areas.
- Setting up infrastructure for vocational training and skill development
- Implementation of projects related to renewable energy sources in rural areas, such as solar power installations.
- Development of market yards and agricultural marketing infrastructure.
- Construction of cold storage facilities for agricultural produce
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Previous Year Questions
1. The Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) has been created under (UPSC CSE 2014)
A.Reserve Bank of India
B.NABARD
C.Ministry of Agriculture
D. Ministry of Rural Development
Answer (B)
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