Tripura CM: Cooperative Societies as a Solution to Unemployment and Militancy

Synopsis
Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha emphasized the role of cooperative societies in addressing unemployment and militancy during a state-level conference. He highlighted the potential to involve millions in cooperatives to foster socio-economic growth and stability.
Key Takeaways
- Cooperative societies can combat unemployment and militancy.
- 9 lakh people are currently involved in cooperatives in Tripura.
- Efforts are needed to engage 20 to 30 lakh more individuals.
- Strengthening PACS through digitization is a priority.
- Awareness about cooperatives is crucial for public participation.
Agartala, Feb 4 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, stated on Tuesday that the expansion of cooperative societies could effectively address both unemployment and militancy issues.
Speaking at a state-level conference focused on the promotion and development of cooperatives at Rabindra Satabarsiki Bhavan, Saha noted that approximately nine lakh individuals are currently involved with cooperative societies in Tripura.
“With a state population of around 40 lakh, it is feasible to have between 20 to 30 lakh people engaged in cooperative societies, thereby enhancing the socio-economic conditions of the populace,” he mentioned.
He highlighted that following Narendra Modi's ascent to the Prime Minister's office in 2014 and the subsequent appointment of Amit Shah as Home Minister overseeing the Ministry of Cooperation, the cooperative sector nationwide has gained significant momentum. He urged that efforts should focus on involving at least 20 to 30 lakh more individuals in cooperative initiatives.
According to him, increased participation in cooperative activities would lead to the resolution of numerous socio-economic challenges and bolster the state's economy.
During the conference, the Chief Minister mentioned efforts to enhance PACS (Primary Agriculture Cooperative Credit Societies) through digitization and the establishment of multi-purpose PACS at the Panchayat level.
“We are implementing critical initiatives within Panchayats and villages, including the creation of milk and fisheries cooperatives and offering e-services through PACS,” he added.
He stressed that advancing the cooperative sector could substantially strengthen the nation and elevate the state.
“By prioritizing cooperatives, we can work towards eradicating poverty in the state and combating corruption,” he asserted.
Chief Minister Saha emphasized that raising public awareness is a primary objective of such programs, aiming to educate the community about the advantages of cooperatives.
He pointed out that many remain unaware of the benefits of cooperatives due to insufficient knowledge.
“The cooperative movement is akin to a bloodless revolution. It is challenging to foresee the extent to which this movement could fortify society. Strengthening cooperative societies in rural areas will catalyze financial advancement for the country,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister noted that India currently ranks as the fifth largest economy globally, up from the 11th position previously, attributing this growth to Prime Minister Modi's leadership.
“We are now targeting the third position in the global economy. The development of the cooperative sector will be pivotal in realizing this goal,” he stated.
He concluded by mentioning that the primary aim of the state-level conference is to evaluate the achievements of cooperatives while also addressing any shortcomings to understand the reasons for past failures.
The event saw participation from Cooperative Minister Shukla Charan Noatia, Dilip Sangani, Chief Executive of the National Cooperative Union of India Sudhir Mahajan, and other distinguished guests.