Should CM Fadnavis Form a Panel to Investigate Sugar Cooperatives' Issues?

Mumbai, May 12 (NationPress) Former Union Minister Sharad Pawar on Monday urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to establish a commission to examine the current situation of sugar cooperatives within the state and the challenges they are encountering.

Addressing a symposium during International Cooperative Day, hosted by the Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank, Pawar stated, “Previously, 80 percent of sugar factories were cooperatives while 20 percent were private; now, the landscape has shifted to 50 percent private factories.”

“The government must form a commission to conduct a thorough investigation into the issues faced by cooperative sugar factories and propose actionable solutions,” emphasized the senior Pawar.

Sharad Pawar reminisced about the Deccan Uprising, noting how the British recognized farmers' hardships and devised solutions. Farmers, who once relied on moneylenders, began securing loans from cooperatives.

“Initially, there were no sugar factories; only jaggery production existed. Traders controlled the market, but the formation of the MSC Bank provided an alternative funding source for farmers,” he mentioned.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who shared the stage with his uncle Sharad Pawar, urged the chief minister to take decisive action against those engaged in illegal activities in the cooperative sector and who then join the government to evade consequences.

“Today, the cooperative sector is experiencing significant transformations. Many believe further changes are necessary. When the Board of Directors fails and jeopardizes the organization, they should be held accountable for losses. Unfortunately, such cases often receive legal stays, enabling the Board to seek refuge with the ruling party, a practice that must be curtailed,” remarked Deputy CM Pawar.

He urged the chief minister to prevent individuals from concealing their misdeeds by aligning with the ruling party.

“Even if they are permitted to join the ruling party, they should still face repercussions for their actions. This will send a clear message that the government won’t tolerate such behavior,” he added, emphasizing the importance of rewarding those who contribute positively.

He highlighted the ongoing evolution in the sector. “From milk to sugar cooperatives, credit societies to urban banks, and savings groups to processing industries, cooperatives play a crucial role. Currently, Maharashtra boasts 5.81 lakh members across 2.5 lakh cooperative institutions.

“This number is set to grow. In this context, Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has committed to increasing the number of cooperatives, promising radical changes in the state's cooperative landscape,” he concluded.