Himachal Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri Meets HM Amit Shah to Request Cooperative Sector Funding

Synopsis
On January 22, Himachal Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri called on Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss funding for cooperative sector initiatives, particularly for computerization efforts. The meeting highlighted the state's commitment to advancing agricultural credit societies and establishing a cooperative training institute.
Key Takeaways
- Agnihotri seeks funds for cooperative projects.
- Rs 5 crore granted for ICM establishment.
- Request for Rs 10 crore for a training institute.
- Union Minister assures timely fund release.
- Zero-tolerance policy on drugs enforced.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) Mukesh Agnihotri, the Deputy Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, met with Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister, to request essential funding for the state's cooperative sector initiatives, particularly for the computerization of primary agricultural credit societies and the Institute of Cooperative Management (ICM).
Agnihotri noted that the state has allocated land in Panjawar, Una, and has committed a grant of Rs 5 crore for establishing the ICM.
He requested an additional Rs 10 crore as a grant-in-aid for the establishment of a cutting-edge cooperative training institute.
The Home Minister responded positively, indicating he is aware of the cooperative sector requests and assured that funds would be disbursed promptly to facilitate the project's timely completion.
Amit Shah also pledged the Centre's full support for Himachal Pradesh's funding needs in cooperative schemes.
Additionally, discussions included funding for launching Mahila Cooperative Haats on a pilot basis within the state.
Agnihotri highlighted the progress made in the computerization initiative, mentioning that out of 870 identified primary agricultural credit societies in the initial phase, 647 have successfully transitioned online, with an expenditure of approximately Rs 18.57 crore. The second phase identifies 919 societies, currently undergoing digitization.
The Union Minister indicated that the Ministry of Cooperation would soon organize a meeting with central and state officials to address any persistent issues.
Furthermore, Agnihotri informed Shah about the serious issue of the drug 'chitta' affecting the state and the proactive measures taken by the state government to combat it.
He emphasized that the state has implemented a zero-tolerance policy towards both corruption and drug-related crimes, with FIRs filed against drug kingpins and ongoing efforts to apprehend remaining suspects.