Revolutionizing the Cooperative Sector:

India's cooperative movement, deeply rooted in its cultural and socio-economic landscape, has evolved into a powerful vehicle for inclusive growth, community empowerment, and rural development. Through the establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation and its recent initiatives, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a cooperative-driven model that reaches every corner of the country, facilitating sustainable livelihoods and financial inclusion for marginalized communities.

The establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation (MOC) on July 6, 2021, marked a transformative moment in India's cooperative movement. With a strong commitment to revitalizing cooperatives, the Ministry has introduced a comprehensive policy framework, legal reforms, and strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening and modernizing the sector. Through its various programs, the Ministry has significantly enhanced the "Ease of Doing Business" for cooperatives, ensured transparency through digitalization, and fostered inclusivity for underserved rural communities.

Visionary Leadership in the Cooperative Movement:

The cooperative movement in India has witnessed revolutionary change under the dynamic and inspiring Minister of Home and Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah ji, who introduced a new thought process in cooperatives. Under his leadership, MOC has introduced remarkable changes to the Indian cooperative movement.

• Model byelaws for making PACS Multipurpose and strengthening PACS through Computerization as Common Service Centers (CSCs) for better access to e-services.

· Establish Multipurpose PACS/Dairy/Fisheries Cooperative Societies in every Panchayat/Village.

· Three new Multi-State Cooperative Societies at the National Level

• • National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) for promoting exports from the cooperative sector.

• • Bhartiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) for cultivating, producing, and distributing improved seeds under a Single Brand Name.
  • National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) for producing, distributing, and marketing certified and authentic organic products.

· The world's most extensive Decentralised Grain Storage Program in the Cooperative sector to ensure food security at the grassroots level.

• The Multi-State Cooperative Societies (Amendment) Act 2023 to amend the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002 to incorporate the provisions of the 97th Constitutional Amendment and to strengthen governance, increase transparency, increase accountability, improve the election process, etc. in Multi-State Cooperative Societies.
• Rs 10,000 crore loan scheme through NCDC for strengthening of cooperative sugar mills & preference in the purchase of ethanol to cooperative sugar mills and establishment of Cogen Power Plants.

As the cooperative movement continues to evolve, it remains a vital component of India's socio-economic framework, addressing contemporary challenges and fostering community resilience. The cooperative movement also develops entrepreneurial skills that are much required in a country like India. It not only adds to economic welfare but also enables the Society to take a lead in contributing to the nation.

Major Milestones in Cooperative Development

A major initiative of the MOC has been the promotion of Multi-State Cooperative Societies and the expansion of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). The introduction of Model Bye-Laws for PACS has empowered them to undertake over 25 diverse activities, ensuring improved governance and broader inclusivity. A landmark

₹2,516 crore project to computerize 63,000 PACS is already underway, with 62,318 PACS from 28 States/UTs included and 15,783 already onboarded. These measures have significantly enhanced operational efficiency, linking PACS with NABARD and ensuring seamless financial transactions.

To further expand cooperative reach, over 9,000 new PACS, dairy, and fishery cooperatives are being established across uncovered Panchayats. The Decentralized Grain Storage Plan is another ambitious initiative aimed at creating storage and agri- infrastructure at PACS levels, thereby reducing food grain wastage and transportation

costs. As part of this, 2,000 PACS have been identified for the pilot project. Moreover, 30,647 PACS have been designated as Common Service Centers (CSCs), providing over 300 essential e-services to rural citizens.

IFFCO’s Revolutionary Contribution to Agriculture

IFFCO’s ground-breaking introduction of Nano Fertilizers, including Nano Urea Plus (Liquid) and Nano DAP (Liquid), has set new standards in the agricultural cooperative sector. With Nano NPK (Granular) soon to receive approval, this innovation is expected to be a game changer in modern farming, offering greater efficiency, cost- effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. These revolutionary products have already gained global recognition, reaching markets in the USA, Brazil, Zambia, Guinea-Conakry, Mauritius, Rwanda, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Today, IFFCO stands as the world’s Number One Cooperative Society, based on its contribution to India’s GDP in the Food and Agriculture Sector. By integrating advanced technology, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, IFFCO and India’s cooperative movement continue to drive economic transformation, ensuring long-term prosperity and global competitiveness.

IFFCO’s leadership in the global cooperative movement continues to grow. As a member of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), IFFCO actively contributes to shaping global cooperative policies. The Global Cooperative Conference of the ICA, hosted by IFFCO in India in November 2024, presented an opportunity to showcase India’s innovative cooperative strategies on an international platform. This event reinforced India's leadership in cooperative advancement and facilitated knowledge exchange with global cooperative leaders.

Tribhuvan Sahkari University: A Catalyst for Cooperative Growth

One of the most remarkable thoughts of development in the cooperative sector has been the establishment of Tribhuvan Sahkari University. This university is envisioned as a premier institution dedicated to cooperative education, research, and leadership development. It aims to equip cooperative leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to modernize and strengthen cooperative governance. By providing specialized training, academic programs, and research opportunities, the university is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India's cooperative movement. The