NEW DELHI, MARCH 30, 2026: A National Conclave on the theme “Implementation Pathways for National Cooperation Policy 2025 and the Way Forward” was organised today at Vigyan Bhawan to accelerate the operationalisation of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi”. The conclave aimed at strengthening the cooperative sector as a key driver of national development under the leadership of Hon’ble Union Minister of Home and Cooperation Amit Shah.
The event was jointly organised by the Ministry of Cooperation and Tribhuvan Sahkari University (TSU). It brought together policymakers, representatives of cooperative institutions, domain experts, and stakeholders from across the country to deliberate on effective strategies for implementing the National Cooperation Policy 2025.
Cooperative Sector as a Pillar of Inclusive Growth
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar highlighted that the cooperative movement has historically been a cornerstone of India’s socio-economic framework, particularly in empowering rural communities. He emphasised that in the context of evolving economic dynamics and rising rural aspirations, the National Cooperation Policy 2025 provides a comprehensive and forward-looking roadmap to position cooperatives as the second engine of national growth.
He underlined that the policy seeks to:
- Accelerate inclusive development through cooperatives
- Strengthen the rural economy
- Enhance member participation and governance
- Contribute significantly towards achieving the vision of a Developed India by 2047
Consultative Policy Formulation and Key Pillars
Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar informed that the policy has been formulated through an extensive consultative process involving 17 meetings and 4 regional workshops, guided by a 48-member national committee. The policy reflects inputs from diverse stakeholders across the country.
He outlined the core pillars of the policy, which include:
- Strengthening the foundational structure of cooperatives
- Expansion and diversification of cooperative institutions
- Development of a vibrant cooperative business ecosystem
- Ensuring transparency and professional management
- Promoting member-centric governance
- Encouraging youth participation and leadership
- Expanding cooperative activities into emerging sectors
He further noted that States are being encouraged to formulate their own cooperation policies, aligning with national priorities to strengthen the cooperative movement at all levels.
Transformative Initiatives Underway
Highlighting major initiatives undertaken by the Ministry, Shri Gurjar emphasized several transformative steps aligned with the National Cooperation Policy 2025, including:
- Transformation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) into multi-functional economic units, enabling them to undertake more than 25 diversified activities
- Establishment of Tribhuvan Sahkari University to build capacity and professionalize the sector
- Launch of White Revolution 2.0 to boost dairy cooperatives
- Development of the National Cooperative Database
- Introduction of a Cooperative Ranking Framework
- Promotion of innovative initiatives such as Bharat Taxi
He expressed confidence that the conclave would provide a strong foundation for time-bound and effective implementation of the policy and offer a new strategic direction to the cooperative sector.
Strengthening PACS and Rural Infrastructure
On the occasion, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani stated that over 80,000 PACS are being computerized nationwide to transform them into efficient, business-oriented and multi-functional entities.
He highlighted key priorities of the Ministry, including:
- Decentralisation of storage infrastructure at the PACS level
- Ensuring fair prices to farmers
- Reducing post-harvest losses
- Lowering logistics costs
These measures are expected to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen the agricultural value chain.
Expert Insights on Cooperative Growth
In his special address, Prof. S. Mahendra Dev emphasized strategies to triple the contribution of the cooperative sector to the Indian economy. He noted that cooperatives have the potential to become a powerful instrument for inclusive and sustainable development.
Similarly, Satish Marathe highlighted that the cooperative sector remains the most effective mechanism for delivering affordable credit at the last mile, particularly in rural and underserved regions.
Thematic Deliberations and Policy Recommendations
The conclave featured multiple thematic sessions covering critical areas such as:
- Digital public infrastructure for cooperatives
- Strengthening PACS as engines of growth
- Member education and capacity building
- Enhancing the participation of youth and women
- Leadership in organic product markets
- Cooperative credit and banking systems
Breakout sessions and open-house discussions enabled participants to provide practical, actionable recommendations for policy implementation. These insights were consolidated and discussed during the concluding session, focusing on a clear and strategic way forward.
The National Conclave marked a significant step towards operationalizing the National Cooperation Policy 2025. It reinforced the commitment of the Government of India to build a transparent, technology-driven, and people-centric cooperative ecosystem.
The deliberations and outcomes of the conclave are expected to accelerate the realization of the vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi”, positioning the cooperative sector as a vital pillar in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
