Union Minister Amit Shah addressed the 91st General Council meeting of the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) in New Delhi, reaffirming the government’s dedication to transforming the lives of farmers and citizens through the cooperative movement. Shah highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the government is committed to uplifting the rural economy and advancing self-reliance via cooperative efforts.
Praising NCDC’s contributions, Shah highlighted its role in driving economic growth and improving the cooperative sector. He lauded the corporation’s achievements, particularly its disbursements exceeding Rs 60,000 crore, which have significantly impacted rural communities. The minister stressed the need for the cooperative movement to continue evolving, calling NCDC a cornerstone in these efforts.
A key highlight of Shah’s address was the emphasis on White Revolution 2.0, particularly in promoting milk cooperative unions in the North Eastern states. He urged collaboration between the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and NCDC to establish milk producers’ associations. By focusing on financial assistance and development in milk production, this initiative aims to empower women and tribal communities, fostering inclusivity and sustainable growth.
Shah proposed innovative ideas, including establishing an app-based Cab Cooperative Society Service to ensure direct profit distribution to drivers, showcasing the potential for cooperatives to modernize traditional industries. He also underlined the importance of a National Cooperative Database to integrate cooperative societies and strengthen Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS).
To boost the sugar industry, Shah proposed a five-year plan to increase financial support for sugar mills, targeting Rs 25,000 crores in funding. Additionally, he highlighted the exploration of deep-sea trawling in coastal states like Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala to boost the fisheries sector.
The minister also launched the Cooperative Intern Scheme, implemented by NCDC, to align state and district cooperative banks with central government initiatives. This scheme will equip participants with practical experience, ensuring the cooperative sector continues to thrive.
Amit Shah emphasized the importance of creating a Cooperative University to further strengthen cooperative education and capability development.
He reiterated the government’s vision of "Sahakar Se Samriddhi" (Prosperity through Cooperation), emphasizing that the cooperative movement is pivotal to the nation’s socio-economic progress.
