May 18, 2025 – Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, addressed a Mega Sammelan on the Role of Cooperation in Viksit Bharat. The event was organized by the Gujarat State Cooperative Union in Ahmedabad as part of the celebrations for the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC) 2025.
In his keynote speech, Shri Shah emphasized the importance of cooperation in building a developed India. He explained that the Modi government introduced the vision of Sahkar se Samriddhi in 2021 to revive and strengthen the cooperative movement across the nation.
Focus on Strengthening Primary Cooperatives
Shri Shah announced that the government aims to establish a Primary Agricultural Credit Society (PACS) in every panchayat by 2029. Over 2 lakh new PACS and dairies will be set up as part of this initiative. He stressed that the benefits of cooperative reforms must reach farmers and grassroots institutions like PACS.
He also stated that a new policy will soon be launched to resolve issues related to PACS under liquidation and for the formation of new societies.
Promoting Transparency and Integration
The Minister outlined three core pillars guiding the cooperative strategy:
-
Integrating cooperation into mainstream governance.
-
Bringing transparency and accountability through technology.
-
Connecting citizens with the cooperative movement.
He shared that the Ministry of Cooperation has undertaken 57 new initiatives under these pillars to ensure faster progress and wider impact.
National Framework for Cooperation
Amit Shah urged the implementation of “Cooperation Amongst Cooperatives” at all levels. He emphasized that district cooperative banks should serve as financial partners for local societies, dairies, and cooperative institutions to ensure smooth coordination and growth.
Additionally, he announced the formation of Tribhuvan Sahakari University to provide education in cooperative practices across all Indian states.
Conclusion
As India marks International Year of Cooperatives 2025, Shri Amit Shah called for greater public awareness, improved transparency, and inclusive development through the cooperative model. The Role of Cooperation in Viksit Bharat remains central to achieving a self-reliant, empowered, and developed India.
