Tribhuvan Sahkari University to Boost Cooperatives: Amit Shah

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025, paving the way for India’s first cooperative university, aimed at strengthening the rural economy and fostering innovation and research in the cooperative sector.

Replying to the discussion, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah asserted that the university will train 8 lakh people annually, producing a new generation of cooperative leadership infused with modern education and the spirit of collaboration.

Major Highlights from Shah’s Speech:

• Tribhuvan Sahkari University will serve as a hub for cooperative education and leadership, benefiting millions engaged in self-employment and small enterprises.
• The Modi government has ensured tax relief for cooperative institutions, reversing past injustices under previous governments.
• The cooperative movement will see a major expansion, with Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) reaching every Panchayat in India.
• Soon, cooperative institutions will extend into taxi and insurance services, further integrating cooperatives into the daily lives of citizens.
• The principle of “Cooperation among Cooperatives” is being actively implemented to strengthen financial stability within the sector.

Countering Opposition Criticism

Shah accused the opposition of politicizing the bill, arguing that their protest stems from the fact that the university is not named after a particular political dynasty. He reminded them that Tribhuvan Das Patel, a pioneer of the cooperative movement, was once associated with their party.

Expanding the Cooperative Footprint

The minister emphasized that under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership, the cooperative sector is being transformed:

• 67,000+ PACS have been computerized, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
• 100% organic products are being distributed under the Bharat Brand label.
• Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) have gained the right to open new branches and offer doorstep banking services.
• Farmers now get 100% MSP for certain crops via cooperative procurement networks.

Shah lauded PM Modi’s 10-year tenure, stating that it will be recorded in golden letters for the upliftment of the poor. He positioned cooperatives as the backbone of self-reliant India, providing employment, financial inclusion, and social security to millions of Indians.

With the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 now cleared by the Lok Sabha, the cooperative sector is set for a massive overhaul, reinforcing Modi’s vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” (Prosperity through Cooperation).