Is Himachal Pradesh the Perfect State for Cooperatives?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Krishan Pal Gurjar praises Himachal Pradesh as a model for cooperatives, highlighting its rich potential and the significant role of cooperative societies in empowering communities. This article explores the recent initiatives and the state's commitment to fostering a robust cooperative ecosystem.
Key Takeaways
- Himachal Pradesh is recognized as a leading state for cooperatives.
- The cooperative movement is vital for rural empowerment.
- Around 20 lakh people are engaged in cooperative societies.
- New initiatives include the launch of 121 e-PACS.
- The state is progressing in sectors like dairy and agriculture.
Shimla, Sep 14 (NationPress) Union Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar on Sunday hailed Himachal Pradesh as an exemplary state for cooperatives while assessing various centrally-funded initiatives aimed at enhancing the cooperative sector. He emphasized that in a multifaceted state like Himachal, there are vast opportunities in this area.
During the review meeting with the Himachal Pradesh Cooperative Department, he inaugurated 121 e-PACS.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri stated that the cooperative movement is being introduced to every household. “Himachal is the cradle of cooperatives and has paved a new path for the nation in this domain.
“Cooperative societies are performing remarkably well. Cooperation has become synonymous with trust, and on this foundation, the cooperative societies in the state have carved their identity on a global scale and reached new levels of achievement,” he remarked.
Approximately 2 million individuals in Himachal are linked to cooperatives, and the state’s cooperative societies are setting a benchmark in women’s empowerment.
Currently, 2,287 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies are actively working towards rural financial inclusion. In this direction, six new multi-purpose societies have been established.
In the state, 76 societies are catering to the fishing community, 971 dairy societies are involved in milk production and distribution, 441 societies are providing savings and credit facilities, and 386 primary marketing cooperative societies are assisting farmers in selling their produce.
Himachal is also making strides in the dairy sector, having set up 561 new societies.
The Deputy Chief Minister mentioned that to expand the cooperative sector in the state, a draft of the Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Policy 2025 has been prepared to align with central cooperative policies. He requested the Union Minister to provide generous support to the state in this regard.
He also sought funding for the digitization of societies and assistance for Himfed and Milkfed. Additionally, he requested prompt financial aid for HIMCAPS College of Law located in the Una district.
He urged a re-evaluation of the fee structure at the proposed Tribhuvan Cooperative University, which is being established for capacity building in the cooperative sector.
The Union Minister assured that Himachal Pradesh would receive all possible support from the Centre in the cooperative sector.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to highlight the significant role of cooperative movements in states like Himachal Pradesh. The commitment from both state and central authorities to bolster this sector reflects a proactive approach towards rural empowerment and sustainable development, aligning with national goals.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What initiatives were launched for cooperatives in Himachal?
Union Minister Krishan Pal Gurjar launched 121 e-PACS during a review meeting aimed at strengthening the cooperative sector.
How many people are involved in cooperatives in Himachal Pradesh?
Approximately 20 lakh (2 million) people are associated with cooperatives in Himachal Pradesh.
What is the significance of cooperatives in Himachal?
Cooperatives in Himachal Pradesh play a critical role in rural financial inclusion, women's empowerment, and community development.
What sectors do cooperatives in Himachal cover?
Cooperatives in Himachal include dairy, agriculture, fishing, and savings and credit facilities, among others.
Is there a new cooperative policy for Himachal Pradesh?
Yes, the draft of Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Policy 2025 has been prepared to align with central cooperative policies.
