PM Modi Unveils Key Initiatives for Cooperative Sector, Emphasizes Role in Viksit Bharat

Addressing a gathering at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, the Prime Minister highlighted the transformative potential of cooperatives in shaping a resilient economy and driving rural prosperity.

The cornerstone of the event was the inauguration of the pilot project for the ‘World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector,’ implemented across 11 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) in 11 states. This pioneering endeavor, spearheaded by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) and supported by NABARD, aims to revolutionize food grain storage infrastructure nationwide.

Additionally, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for an additional 500 PACS, slated to construct godowns and other agricultural infrastructure, thereby fortifying food security and stimulating economic growth.

In a significant stride towards digital empowerment, the Prime Minister inaugurated a project for computerization in 18,000 PACS across the country. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of “Sahakar se Samridhi,” aimed at rejuvenating the cooperative sector and empowering small and marginal farmers through technological integration.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of cooperatives in India’s socio-economic fabric, PM Modi underscored their ancient roots and inherent spirit of collective strength. He reiterated that cooperatives have the potential to transform mundane daily systems into robust industrial endeavors, thereby driving rural and agricultural progress.

The Prime Minister elucidated on the multifaceted benefits of cooperatives, ranging from enhancing storage infrastructure to fostering entrepreneurship among small farmers. Highlighting the success stories of initiatives like Amul and Lijjat Papad, PM Modi underscored the central role of women in cooperative enterprises, reaffirming the government’s commitment to gender-inclusive policies in the sector.

Furthermore, PM Modi outlined the cooperative sector’s pivotal role in realizing the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). He underscored the need for cooperatives to explore avenues for local production, reduce import dependence, and spearhead initiatives in renewable energy and global branding of agricultural products.

The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of digital payment systems, soil health initiatives, and skill development programs in enhancing the sector’s efficiency and outreach. He called for greater youth and women participation in cooperatives, advocating for knowledge-sharing platforms and transparency in organizational processes.

In conclusion, PM Modi expressed confidence in the collective strength of cooperative societies to propel India towards holistic development.

Union Ministers Amit Shah, Arjun Munda, and Piyush Goyal were among the dignitaries present at the event, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing the cooperative sector’s pivotal role in Viksit Bharat.