Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has called for a paradigm shift in the cooperative sector, emphasizing the integration of transparency, technology, and people's welfare into its core "work culture". Speaking at an event commemorating the fourth foundation day of the Ministry of Cooperation at Amul Dairy in Anand, Gujarat, Shah outlined his vision for revitalizing the cooperative movement and ensuring its long-term success.
Shah stressed that these three principles—transparency, technology adoption, and prioritizing member interests—must be adopted by every cooperative, from Jammu & Kashmir to Kamakhya in Assam, and in every village across India. He argued that a lack of transparency can erode the very foundation of cooperation, while failure to embrace technology would render cooperatives unable to compete in the modern economy. Putting the member's interest first is also paramount.
To achieve this transformation, Shah highlighted the "Five Ps" as the guiding pillars: People, PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Societies), Platform (digital integration), Policy (reform-driven policies), and Prosperity (societal growth). He emphasized that all initiatives must ultimately benefit the ordinary citizens of India. Strengthening primary cooperative networks through PACS is crucial, as is establishing digital infrastructure to enhance efficiency and reach.
Several initiatives have been launched by the Ministry of Cooperation in the past four years. These include the registration of 200,000 new PACS, the establishment of India's first cooperative university, and the creation of three national-level dairy cooperatives. Tribhuvan Sahkari University, the first university for the cooperative sector, will ensure that only trained professionals get jobs in the cooperative sector, increasing transparency and ending nepotism. Shah also inaugurated Amul Dairy's expanded facility and unveiled the logo of The Sardar Patel Cooperative Milk Dairy Federation. He also awarded a registration certificate to the Kutch Salt Producers Cooperative Society, empowering salt workers through cooperative participation.
Shah urged cooperative leaders to adopt these principles to create a strong brand, similar to Amul. He also emphasized the importance of a cooperative of salt producers in the Kutch district. He expressed confidence that Amul's turnover would surpass ₹1 lakh crore next year, demonstrating the power of the cooperative model when implemented effectively.
The Minister noted the historical significance of cooperation in India, tracing its roots back to the Vedic era. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with giving legal recognition to this tradition by establishing the Ministry of Cooperation in 2021. He also paid tribute to Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookherjee, emphasizing his contribution to India's integrity.
Shah concluded by stating that the cooperative movement must become India's economic backbone and a driver of inclusive growth.
