Cooperative movement key to economic growth, say experts at ministry anniv seminar
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Nagpur: The cooperative sector is driving grassroots economic development and transforming lives across rural and urban India, experts said at a seminar held in Nagpur on the anniversary of the ministry of cooperation on Sunday.
The event, held at the Zilla Niyojan Bhavan, spotlighted the revolutionary strides made in the sector following the creation of an independent ministry of cooperation in 2021.
The seminar, titled, 'Changes in the cooperative sector after the establishment of the ministry of cooperation', drew participation from senior govt officials and cooperative leaders. Dignitaries included divisional joint registrar Praveen Wankhede, district deputy registrar Ajay Kadu, divisional deputy registrar Dinesh Chandel, and special auditor of the department.
Key cooperative figures like former MLA Anil Sole, Sanjay Bhende of Nagpur Nagarik Sahakari Bank, and Vivek Jugade of Vivekananda Nagari Sahakari Sanstha shared insights into the sector's progress and challenges.
Sanjay Bhende emphasised how cooperative societies have become vital sources of financial empowerment for ordinary citizens. "The creation of a separate ministry has led to systematic reforms. Earlier, the cooperative department was under the agriculture ministry.
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Now, with focused governance, we've seen increased accountability and innovation," he said.
Vivek Jugade highlighted the need for unity and effective communication within cooperatives. "Lack of internal cohesion often weakens organisations. Regular training and organisational coherence are crucial for survival and growth," he said, calling for proactive initiatives by the cooperative department to bridge skill gaps.
Sole addressed financial hurdles faced by cooperatives and stressed the need for stricter, more efficient loan disbursement practices. He called for support mechanisms that make cooperative lending more reliable and impactful.
Divisional joint registrar Praveen Wankhede outlined tech-driven reforms such as computerisation of cooperative processes, support for initiatives like Jan Aushadhi and Krishi Samruddhi Kendras, and simplifying regulatory procedures.
He reiterated the ministry's vision of 'Sahakar Se Samruddhi'— prosperity through cooperation—saying, "If we connect every village through cooperative models, we can unlock the potential of every marginalised community.
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The event was concluded with Rajendra Ghate, chairman of Nagpur District Sahakari Patsantha Federation, who praised the commitment of cooperative leaders across the region.
The seminar saw an overwhelming response with wide participation from cooperative societies, reinforcing that the movement is not just alive but evolving into a major force for inclusive economic development.
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