Punjab National Bank (PNB), one of the 500 largest banks in the world, has proposed to set up a Farmers' Training Centre (FTC) in south Orissa's Ganjam district.

In addition, after considering PNB's plan, the Orissa government has also agreed to provide 7 acres of land to the lender near Karapalli under Rangeilunda block, about 20 km from here for the proposed centre.

It should be noted that the proposed FTC of Orissa would be the first of its kind in Orissa and the ninth in the country. The nationalised bank has already set up eight FTCs in different states across the country, which includes Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

According to lender, The FTC to be set up by the Farmer's Welfare Trust of PNB would provide training to the farmers on different aspects. Initially, around 40 farmers would be given training along with free lodging and boarding.

The agreement is likely to be signed after the completion of the election process, and the centre is expected to be functional within a year.