NITI Aayog has decided in principle to set up an Expert Group for evolving ways to strengthen the cooperative banks in the country. <br/><br/>The issue relating to providing financial support to District Central Cooperative Banks came up during the meeting of NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Arvind Panagariya with Chief Secretary of Punjab in New Delhi today. <br/><br/>The Expert Group will be headed by NITI Aayog member Prof. Ramesh Chand. The group will also discuss regulatory issues for cooperative banks. <br/><br/>On inclusion of livestock and dairy farming in crop diversification plan (CDP) under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, Agriculture Ministry representative indicated that there is flexibility for States under the scheme. It was also indicated that state can include green fodder as a crop for replacing area under paddy.<br/><br/>On clearance of Project for Extension, Renovation and Modernisation of Canals being fed from river Sutlej, during the meeting, it was agreed that approval will be provided within a week of receipt of revised proposal from Punjab.