Why is Amit Shah Supporting Gujarat’s Salt Cooperatives and Celebrating Amul’s Expansion?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Amit Shah has made headlines by endorsing Gujarat's first salt cooperative initiative, a significant step for local salt workers. He also highlighted Amul's growing influence, with women's participation at the forefront of this cooperative success. This initiative not only promises fair profits but also reinforces the importance of community-driven economic models.
Key Takeaways
- Amit Shah supports Gujarat's first salt cooperative initiative.
- The initiative aims to benefit traditional salt workers.
- Amul continues to expand its reach and impact.
- Women's participation in cooperatives is on the rise.
- Financial initiatives are enhancing credit access in the cooperative sector.
Anand, July 6 (NationPress) Union Minister of Cooperation and Home Affairs Amit Shah praised the introduction of Gujarat's inaugural cooperative venture in salt production, referring to it as a long-awaited achievement in the cooperative realm.
During an event celebrating four years of the Ministry of Cooperation, Minister Shah also launched a series of new projects by dairy leader Amul. "Salt was the only segment that remained unaddressed by the cooperative movement. Today, that void has been filled," he stated, recognizing Humbalbhai -- the driving force behind the Kutch District Cooperative Salt Federation -- and inviting applause for this new initiative.
He indicated that this change would guarantee equitable earnings for Gujarat's traditional salt producers, the Agariyas, through a structured, community-oriented model. The minister also inaugurated the expanded facilities of Amul's Mogar chocolate and Khatraj cheese plants, unveiling the new Sardar Patel Cooperative Dairy Federation, further enhancing Amul’s national presence.
Emphasizing Amul’s growing achievements, Shah remarked, "Currently, 36 lakh women in Gujarat and an additional 20 lakh across India drive Amul's operations. Due to their contributions, Amul's present turnover reaches Rs 80,000 crore. Next year, we are poised to surpass Rs 1 lakh crore -- with profits directly benefiting 56 lakh women." He stressed that the cooperative model aims to uplift communities rather than enrich individuals, with Amul exemplifying a model of inclusive economic prosperity.
Gujarat features one of India’s largest and most varied cooperative sectors, comprising over 83,000 - 87,200 cooperative societies in agriculture, dairy, sugar, housing, credit, and marketing, involving 1.71 - 1.79 crore members. Central to this ecosystem is the Anand Pattern dairy model, home to influential players like Amul, Banas Dairy, and Dudhsagar Dairy, collectively serving 3.6 million milk producers, processing over 24 lakh litres/day, and generating annual revenues exceeding Rs 90,000 crore. Women play an increasingly crucial role: from 2020 to 2025, the number of women-led dairy cooperatives surged by 21 percent (from 3,764 to 4,562), with women making up 25 percent of milk union boards and 32 percent of producer-members -- driving a 39 percent increase in milk procurement by women-led organizations to 57 lakh L/day, yielding over Rs 9,000 crore yearly.
Financial modernization is progressing -- the "Cooperation among Cooperatives" initiative has expanded to 33 districts, establishing over four lakh new bank accounts and accumulating more than Rs 966 crore in deposits, enhancing liquidity and credit access.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the transformative impact of cooperative models like the ones championed by Amit Shah. As India navigates economic challenges, initiatives that empower local communities and enhance women's participation in the workforce are vital for sustainable growth. This approach not only addresses economic disparities but also fosters a more inclusive society.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Gujarat's first salt cooperative?
The establishment of Gujarat's first salt cooperative is monumental as it fills a gap in the cooperative movement, ensuring fair profits for traditional salt workers, the Agariyas.
How does Amul contribute to the cooperative sector?
Amul plays a pivotal role in the cooperative sector by empowering millions of women, driving substantial revenues, and setting a benchmark for inclusive economic practices.
What percentage of milk union boards are led by women?
Currently, women constitute 25% of milk union boards, highlighting their growing influence in the cooperative dairy sector.
How many cooperative societies are there in Gujarat?
Gujarat boasts over 83,000 - 87,200 cooperative societies across various sectors, showcasing its vast cooperative landscape.
What financial initiatives are being undertaken?
The "Cooperation among Cooperatives" initiative has expanded, adding over four lakh new bank accounts and increasing deposits significantly to enhance liquidity and credit access.
