New Delhi (17.10.2024): Cooperatives in India are poised to play a pivotal role in India to achieve Viksit Bharat goal of the Modi government by 2047. PHDCCI organized a National Summit on Strengthening Cooperative Movement for Viksit Bharat, themed ‘Strengthening Bonds | Building Viksit Bharat Together,’ held today at PHD House, New Delhi.
Highlighting the role of cooperatives in India's journey towards a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ Dr Ashish Kumar Bhutani, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India emphasized the sector’s significance at the Summit. With approximately 25 per cent of the world’s cooperatives based in India, Dr Bhutani underscored the sector’s robust foundation and transformative potential. “This is the first time the General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference is happening in India, marking a significant milestone. NCOL, BBSSL, and NCEL, the three national cooperative societies, have spearheaded a transformation in the sector,” Dr Bhutani stated.
Dr Bhutani elaborated on the government’s clear vision for cooperatives, emphasizing their critical role in achieving a developed India. “The Ministry of Cooperation, established three years ago, has made substantial progress in addressing key issues, ensuring comprehensive integration, and strengthening the sector. Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) are the foundation of our initiatives. We have drafted a model by-law in consultation with states, making PACS eligible for over 25 activities,” he added. Addressing operational challenges, he highlighted efforts to enhance transparency by integrating PACS with the rural infrastructure and fostering a supportive ecosystem.
The Secretary announced three major initiatives aimed at cooperative development:
Establishment of 200,000 New Multi-Purpose Cooperative Societies: To cover underserved areas over the next five years.
White Revolution 2.0: Aiming to increase milk procurement of dairy cooperatives by 50% over the next five years by providing market access to dairy farmers in uncovered areas and increasing the share of dairy cooperatives in the organised sector. This will also empower women, and tackle malnutrition and other multifaceted issues.
Cooperation among Cooperatives: Enhancing collaborative efforts within the sector.
Vineet Nahata, Chair of the Task Force on Cooperatives, PHDCCI, presented the industry’s perspective, emphasizing the integration of industry with the cooperative sector. Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he praised the cooperative sector’s resilience and effective management, which contributed to a 24 per cent growth contribution to India’s GDP. “The sector’s ability to navigate challenges and emerge stronger serves as a global case study,” Nahata remarked, extending best wishes to the Ministry of Cooperation for its continued efforts.
