Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Saturday emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing the cooperative movement and driving positive change in people’s lives. He announced a comprehensive five-year plan aimed at increasing the financial capacity of sugar mills to Rs 25,000 crores, fostering industry growth and long-term sustainability.
“This strategic initiative is expected to enhance the growth and sustainability of the sugar industry, ensuring improved financial stability and supporting the sector’s long-term development,” Shah said at the 91st General Council meeting of the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC).
He also praised NCDC’s contributions to the cooperative sector, noting its Rs 60,000 crore disbursement and positive impact on rural economies.
Emphasising the importance of White Revolution 2.0, Shah said that special focus should be on promoting Milk Cooperative Unions in the North Eastern States. He highlighted the need for collaboration between NDDB and NCDC to establish milk producers’ associations.
The Minister also said that these organizations should work together to provide financial assistance with the initial phase of milk production being overseen by NDDB. The initiative, he stated, would not only drive the White Revolution forward but also play a significant role in empowering tribal communities and women.
He also stressed on the need to establish an app-based Cab Cooperative Society Service, which will ensure that profits are directly distributed to the drivers and emphasised the critical role of the National Cooperative Database in integrating cooperative societies besides highlighting the need to strengthen Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). Union Minister of Cooperation said that the NCDC and the Union Ministry of Cooperation will play a pivotal role in driving these efforts.
Shah said that the Ministry of Cooperation has introduced Cooperative Intern scheme with NCDC as the implementing agency. “The scheme aims to help State and District cooperative banks in aligning with schemes of central government and strengthening of PACS. The Cooperative Intern Scheme helps participants gain invaluable hands-on experience, preparing them to drive forward the principles of cooperation and support the development of rural communities. “
Plans are also afoot to establish a Cooperative University to further strengthen the cooperative sector nationwide and underscored the importance of the capability development program for cooperatives, highlighting its role in advancing the vision of Sahakar Se Samriddhi (Prosperity through Cooperation).
