Highlighting the pivotal role of cooperatives in India’s journey towards a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Govt. of India emphasized the sector’s significance at the PHDCCI’s National Summit on Strengthening Cooperative Movement for Viksit Bharat, themed “Strengthening Bonds | Building Viksit Bharat Together,” held at PHD House, New Delhi.

With approximately 25% of the world’s cooperatives based in India, Dr. Bhutani, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, 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. PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Societies) 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.

Shri 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% growth contribution to India’s GDP. “The sector’s ability to navigate challenges and emerge stronger serves as a global case study,” Shri Nahata remarked, extending best wishes to the Ministry of Cooperation for its continued efforts.

Shri Vikrant Dogra, Chairman of The Unati Agri Allied and Mkt. Multistate Cooperative Society Ltd., highlighted regional successes in Jammu and Kashmir, where cooperative clusters are enhancing socio-economic conditions. He shared the success story of Unnati Talwara Cooperative, which employs 300 women and generates profits of approximately ₹100 crore. “Strengthening the cooperative movement is essential for a Viksit Bharat. Our model supports both sectoral development and reaches individuals in the most remote areas,” he stated.

Smt. Savitri Singh, Deputy CEO of NCUI, lauded PHDCCI for organizing the summit and highlighted the cooperative sector’s evolution through green, white, and now blue revolutions. She expressed confidence in the sector’s growing membership and its crucial role in achieving a $5 trillion economy. “Globally, strong cooperative societies are a hallmark of developed nations, demonstrating their enduring impact,” she noted.

Dr. Prem Garg, National President of the Indian Rice Exporter’s Federation (IREF), called for government support in initiatives like the pesticide-free rice campaign launched in Julana, Haryana. “IREF is committed to educating farmers across 14 states on reducing pesticide use and is ready to collaborate fully for sector development,” he affirmed.

Concluding the summit, Dr. Jatinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General of PHDCCI, extended a vote of thanks and announced the next PHDCCI summit scheduled for November 8 in Guwahati, focusing on further strengthening the cooperative movement.