Parliament Question: Strengthening of the Cooperative Sector

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF COOPERATION LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3864 TO BE ANSWERED ON 12TH AUGUST, 2025 Strengthening of the Cooperative Sector 3864. Shri Aashtikar Patil Nagesh Bapurao: Will the Minister of COOPERATION (सहकारिता मंत्री) be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government has taken any recent steps to strengthen the cooperative movement across the country, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas; (b) if so, the details of such initiatives, including any financial or institutional support provided to cooperative societies; (c) whether the Government proposes to introduce reforms to enhance transparency, efficiency and autonomy in the functioning of cooperatives; and (d) if so, the details thereof along with the timeline and framework proposed for such reforms? ANSWER THE MINISTER OF COOPERATION सहकारिता मंत्री (SHRI AMIT SHAH) (a) and (b): Yes Sir. The Ministry of Cooperation, since its inception on 6th July, 2021, has undertaken multipronged initiatives to realise the vision of “Sahakar-se-Samriddhi” and for strengthening and deepening the cooperative movement from the primary to the apex level, including rural and semi-urban areas, the details of those initiatives are at Annexure- ‘A’. (c) and (d): Reforms are a continuous process. To enhance transparency, efficiency, and autonomy in the functioning of cooperatives nationwide, National Cooperative Policy 2025 has been launched recently which provides a roadmap for the systematic and all-around development of the cooperative sector. *****ANNEXURE-A Progress on major initiatives taken by Ministry of Cooperation Ministry of Cooperation, since its inception on 6th July, 2021, has undertaken several initiatives to realize the vision of “Sahakar-se-Samriddhi” and to strengthen & deepen the cooperative movement from Primary to Apex level Cooperatives in the country. List of initiatives taken and progress made so far are as follows: A. Making Primary Cooperatives economically vibrant and transparent 1. Model Bye-Laws for PACS making them multipurpose, multidimensional and transparent entities: Government, in consultation with all the stakeholders, including States/ UTs, National Level Federations, State Cooperative Banks (StCBs), District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs), etc., has prepared and circulated Model Bye-laws for PACS to all the States/ UTs, which enable PACS to undertake more than 25 business activities, improve governance, transparency and accountability in their operations. Provisions have also been made to make the membership of PACS more inclusive and broad-based, giving adequate representation to women and Scheduled Castes/Schedules Tribes. So far, 32 States/ UTs have adopted Model Bye-laws or their existing bye-laws are in line with Model Bye-laws. 2. Strengthening of PACS through Computerization: In order to strengthen PACS, project for Computerization of functional PACS with a total financial outlay of ₹2925.39 Crore has been approved by the Government of India, which entails bringing all functional PACS in the Country onto a common ERP based national software, linking them with NABARD through StCBs and DCCBs. A total of 73,492 PACS from 31 States/ UTs have been sanctioned under the project. A total of 59,920 PACS have been onboarded on ERP Software and hardware has been procured by 30 States/UTs. 3. Establishing New Multipurpose PACS/ Dairy/ Fishery Cooperatives in covering all the Panchayats: The Government of India has approved the plan to establish new multipurpose PACS/dairy/fisheries cooperatives, aiming to cover all panchayats and villages in the country over the next five years. This initiative is supported by NABARD, NDDB, NFDB and State/UT Governments. As per National Cooperative Database, a total of 22,606 new PACS, Dairy and Fishery Cooperative Societies have been registered as on 30.06.2025 across the country since the approval of the plan on 15.2.2023. 4. Launch of Margdarshika/ SOP for Establishing New Multipurpose PACS/ Dairy/ Fishery Cooperatives in covering all the Panchayats: In order to ensure effective and timely implementation of the plan, Ministry of Cooperation in coordination with NABARD, NDDB and NFDB has launched a Standard Operating Procedure (Margdarshika) on 19.9.2024, indicating the targets and timelines for all stakeholders concerned. 5. World’s Largest Decentralized Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative sector: Government has approved a plan to create warehouses, custom hiring centers, primary processing units and other agri-infrastructure for grain storage at PACS level, through convergence of various GOI schemes, including AIF, AMI, SMAM, PMFME, etc. This will reduce wastage of food grains and transportation costs, enable farmers to realize better prices for theirproduce and meet various agricultural needs at the PACS level itself. Under the pilot project, construction of godowns in 11 PACS of 11 States has been completed. Further, under the Extended Pilot, more than 500 PACS across the country have been identified for construction of godowns under the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector. Currently, the State Department of Food and Civil Supplies, NAFED, and NCCF have given hiring assurance for godowns to be constructed in 147 PACS, and construction work has commenced in 103 PACS. 6. Launch of Margdarshika/ SOP for World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector: A comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) - “Margdarshika” has been developed and shared with the States/ UTs for the smooth and uniform implementation of the Plan. The Margdarshika includes: formation of various committees under the scheme, decisions taken in the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC), introduction and benefits of various converged schemes under the plan, application procedure, phase-wise implementation flowchart of the grain storage project, expected outcomes and defined timelines, roles and responsibilities of the Ministry of Cooperation and other stakeholders, Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) guidelines for the construction of godowns, criteria for the selection of PACS under the scheme. 7. Amendments made under AMI Scheme with regard to World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan: Based on the decisions taken in the 2nd IMC meeting of World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector, held on 23.10.2024, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has made the following amendments under the AMI scheme: • To enhance financial viability of the scheme, the margin money requirement has been reduced from 20% to 10%. • The construction cost has been revised from ₹3000–3500/MT to ₹7000/MT for plain areas and from ₹4000/MT to ₹8000/MT for northeastern states. • The subsidy has been increased from 25% to 33.33% (from ₹875/MT to ₹2333/MT for plain areas and from ₹1333.33/MT to ₹2666/MT for northeastern states). • For PACS, a provision has been made to provide an additional subsidy of 1/3 (one third) of the total admissible subsidy for ancillary infrastructure such as internal roads, weighbridges, boundary walls, etc., for PACS. 8. Developments pertaining to FCI regarding identification and issuance of Hiring Assurance to Godowns under the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector: Based on the decisions taken in the meeting held on 2.6.2025 under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Home and Cooperation Minister, FCI has been entrusted to identify PACS, provide hiring assurance, and ensure the annual hiring of these warehouses, the following progress have been made: • In Phase I, FCI has identified 216 potential locations for hiring of godowns of 2500 MT and above (1671 MT and above for North Eastern and Hilly areas)• About 26.03 LMT Storage requirement has been mapped by FCI in these potential 216 locations in 18 States /UTs 9. PACS as Common Service Centers (CSCs) for better access to e-services: An MoU has been signed between Ministry of Cooperation, MeitY, NABARD and CSC e-Governance Services India Limited for providing more than 300 e-services such as banking, insurance, Aadhar enrolment/ updation, health services, PAN card and IRCTC/ Bus/ Air ticket, etc. through PACS. So far, 47,918 PACS have started providing CSC services to rural citizens. 10. Formation of new Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) by PACS: Under the Central Sector Scheme - Formation and Promotion of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), NCDC is one of the Implementing Agencies designated by Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India towards formation and promotion of FPOs under Cooperative Societies Act. Target for formation and promotion of 746 FPOs was assigned by DA&FW to NCDC and NCDC registered 746 FPOs in the cooperative sector. Thereafter, with the initiative of Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, additional target of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) was allocated to NCDC by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, GoI, for formation and promotion of FPOs in cooperative sector through strengthening of PACS under the scheme and NCDC got target of 1117 FPOs and registered/onboarded 1117 FPOs through the members of PACS. This will be helpful in providing farmers with necessary market linkages and get fair and remunerative process for their produce. NCDC has disbursed ₹179 crore to FPOs/CBBOs under the scheme. 11. PACS given priority for Retail Petrol/ Diesel outlets: Government has allowed PACS to be included in the Combined Category 2 (CC2) for allotment of retail petrol/ diesel outlets. As per information received from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), 393 PACS from 27 States/UTs have applied online for retail petrol/ diesel outlets. 12. PACS given permission to convert bulk consumer petrol pumps into retail outlets: The existing bulk consumer licensee PACS have been given a one-time option by Oil Marketing Companies to convert into retail outlets. As per information shared by OMCs, 117 wholesale consumer pump licensee PACS from 5 States have given consent for conversion into Retail Outlets, out of which 59 PACS have been commissioned by the OMCs. 13. PACS eligible for LPG Distributorship for diversifying its activities: Government has now allowed PACS to apply for LPG Distributorships. This will give PACS an option to increase their economic activities and diversify their income stream. As of now, 2 PACS from the state of Jharkhand have applied for LPG distributorship under CC Category. 14. PACS as PM Bharatiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra for improving access to generic medicines at rural level: PACS have been allowed to operate Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiKendras (PMBJKs), which will provide additional income source to them and ease the access to quality generic medicines for rural citizens. So far, 4,118 PACS/ cooperative societies have applied online for PMBJKs, out of which 4,108 PACS have been given initial approval by Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) and762 PACS have got store codes from PMBI which are ready to function as PM Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras. 15. PACS as Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSK): PACS have been enabled to operate PMKSK for ensuring easy accessibility of fertilizer & related services to farmers in the country. As per the information shared by Department of Fertilizers (GOI) and States/ UTs, a total of 36,592 PACS are functioning as PMKSK. 16. PACS to carry out O&M of rural piped water supply schemes (PWS): PACS have been made eligible to carry out the Operations & Maintenance (O&M) of PWS in rural areas. As per information received from States/ UTs, 539 PACS have been identified/ selected by 8 States/ UTs to provide O&M services at Panchayat/ Village level. 17. Convergence of PM-KUSUM at PACS level: Farmers associated with PACS can adopt solar agricultural water pumps and install photovoltaic modules in their farms. 18. Convergence of PM Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG–MBY) at Cooperative Societies level: The initiative seeks to accelerate the adoption of clean and low-cost rooftop solar energy while leveraging the extensive grassroots presence of cooperative societies. 100 towns have been shortlisted for focused implementation of this initiative. 19. Micro-ATMs to Bank Mitra Cooperative Societies for providing doorstep financial services: Dairy and Fisheries cooperative societies can be made Bank Mitras of DCCBs and StCBs. To ensure their ease of doing business, transparency and financial inclusion, Micro-ATMs are also being given to these Bank Mitra Co-operative Societies with support from NABARD to provide 'Door-step Financial Services'. To facilitate effective implementation of the initiative, an SOP has been launched on 19th September 2024. So far, 9,723 Micro-ATMs have been distributed to Bank Mitra cooperative societies in Gujarat. 20. Rupay Kisan Credit Card to Members of Milk Cooperatives: In order to expand the reach of DCCBs/ StCBs and to provide necessary liquidity to the members of Dairy Cooperative societies, Rupay Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) are being distributed to the members of cooperatives for providing credit at comparatively lower interest rates and to enable them to carry out other financial transactions. To facilitate effective implementation of the initiative, an SOP has been launched on 19th September 2024. So far, 8,59,487 Rupay KCC have been distributed in the State of Gujarat. 21. Formation of Fish Farmer Producer Organization (FFPO): In order to provide market linkage and processing facilities to fishermen, NCDC registered 70 FFPOs in the initial phase. In addition, Department of Fisheries, Government of India allocated the work of converting 1000 existing fisheries cooperative societies into FFPOs to National Cooperative Development Corporation. National Cooperative Development Corporation has identified 1000 Primary Fisheries Cooperatives Societies to strengthen as FFPOs, with an approved outlay of Rs.280.65 crore. Business plan for the selected societies is being prepared by the CBBOs. NCDC has disbursed ₹81 crore to FPOs/CBBOs under the scheme.22. White Revolution 2.0: The Ministry of Cooperation has launched an initiative to usher Cooperative-led "White Revolution 2.0” aimed at expanding cooperative coverage, employment generation and women's empowerment with an objective "To increase the milk procurement of dairy cooperatives by 50% from the present level over next five years by providing market access to dairy farmers in uncovered areas and increasing the share of dairy cooperatives in organised sector." The SOP for White Revolution 2.0 was launched on 19.09.2024 by Hon’ble Home & Cooperation Minister in presence of Hon’ble Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. On 25.12.2024 Hon’ble Home & Cooperation Minister in the presence of Hon’ble Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying inaugurated 6,600 newly set up Dairy Cooperative Societies. So far, 15,096 DCSs have been registered in 31 states/UTs. 23. Atmanirbharta Abhiyan: Ministry of Cooperation has launched the initiative to incentivize production of pulses (tur, masur and urad) to reduce dependency on imports, and production of maize to be used for production of ethanol for meeting the goal of Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) through National Cooperative Consumer Federation (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED). Both have developed their own web portal i.e. e-samyukti and e-samridhi respectively for registration of farmers through cooperatives. Both have assured pre-registered farmers of tur, urad, masur and maize to procure 100% of their produce at Minimum Support Price (MSP). However, if market prices exceed the MSP, farmers are free to sell their produce in the open market. A total of 41,40,566 farmers have already registered on the e-samyukti portal of NCCF. Similarly, 11,02,573 farmers have registered themselves on the e-samridhi portal of NAFED. B. Strengthening the Cooperative Banks 24. Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) have been allowed to open new branches to expand their business: UCBs can now open new branches up to 10% (maximum 5 branches) of the existing number of branches in the previous financial year without prior approval of RBI. 25. UCBs have been allowed by RBI to offer doorstep services to their customers: Door step banking facility can now be provided by UCBs. Account holders of these banks can now avail various banking facilities at home such as cash withdrawal, cash deposit, KYC, demand draft and life certificate for pensioners, etc. 26. Notification of Scheduling norms for including Urban Cooperative Banks: UCBs that meet the 'Financially Sound and Well Managed' (FSWM) criteria and have maintained the minimum deposits required for classification as Tier 3 for the last two years are now eligible to be included in Schedule II of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 and get 'Scheduled' status. 27. A Nodal Officer designated in RBI for regular interaction with UCBs: In order to meet the long pending demand of the cooperative sector for closer coordination and focused interaction, RBI has notified a nodal officer.28. Relief for Urban Cooperative Societies (UCBs) by reducing PSL target from 75% to 60%: RBI had increased the priority sector lending (PSL) target for UCBs to 75%, due to which UCBs were facing a lot of constraints. Now the target for UCBs has been reduced from 75% to 60%, which gives a lot of relief to these banks. 29. Housing loan limit for Urban Cooperative Banks increased from 10% to 25%: Housing loan limit for members of Urban Cooperative Banks has been increased from 10% of assets to 25% (up to Rs 3 crore) of their total loan & advances. 30. Relief in sub-limit of 12% sub-limit (weaker sections) by withdrawing of target of ₹ 2 lakh for women loan repayment: Removal of the target of ₹2 lakh for women borrowers under the 12% sub-limit for weaker sections simplifies PSL compliance and provides UCBs greater operational freedom in meeting PSL obligations. 31. Relief to Urban Cooperative Institutions by increasing 50% loan limit from ₹ 1 crore to ₹ 3 crore: The loan and advances exposure limit for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) at 50% of loans and advances has been increased from ₹1 crore to ₹3 crore, which helps them meet the higher credit demands of individual borrowers, supports business growth and improves their competitiveness in the retail and SME lending segments. 32. Monetary ceiling doubled by RBI for Gold Loan: RBI has doubled monetary ceiling from Rs. 2 lakhs to Rs.4 lakhs, for those UCBs that meet the PSL targets. 33. Umbrella Organization for Urban Cooperative Banks: RBI has accorded approval to the National Federation of Urban Co-operative Banks and Credit Societies Ltd. (NAFCUB) for the formation of an Umbrella Organization (UO) for the UCB sector, which aims to provide necessary IT infrastructure and operational support to around 1,500 UCBs. 34. RBI extended the glide path for Security Receipts from FY 2025-26 to FY 2027-28: RBI, vide circular dated 24.02.2025, has provided an additional two years time for provisioning of non-performing assets through Asset Reconstruction Company for better management of capital and liquidity in urban co-operative banks so that these banks can minimize the losses on stressed assets. 35. Cooperative banks have been allowed to make one-time settlement of outstanding loans, like Commercial Banks: Co-operative banks, through board-approved policies, can now provide the process for settlement with borrowers, along with technical write-off. 36. Higher Housing Loan Limits: Reserve Bank of India has increased the individual housing loan limit for rural co-operative banks by two and a half times to Rs. 75 lakh and enabled them to lend to real estate up to 5% of total exposure. 37. License fee reduced for Cooperative Banks for AePS: License fee for onboarding Cooperative Banks to ‘Aadhaar Enabled Payment System’ (AePS) has been reduced by linking it to the number of transactions. Cooperative financial institutions are now to get the facility free of cost for the first three months of the pre-production phase. With this,farmer members of onboarded Banks are now able to get the facility of banking at their home with through biometrics. 38. Non-scheduled UCBs, StCBs and DCCBs notified as Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) in CGTMSE Scheme to increase the share of cooperatives in lending: Cooperative banks are now able to take advantage of risk coverage up to 85 percent on the loans given. Also, cooperative sector enterprises are also be able to get collateral free loans from cooperative banks now. CGTMSE rationalized the eligibility criteria from 5% Gross NPA or less to 7% Gross NPA or less for registration of Cooperative Banks as Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) under Credit Guarantee Scheme (CGS). 39. Banking Regulation Act is amended by the Government to make the term of Board of Directors of Cooperative Banks as per the constitution (maximum 10 consecutive years). 40. Limit for Agricultural Cooperative Societies (Dairy) under Priority Sector Guidelines increased from ₹5 crore to ₹10 crore: RBI has increased the priority sector lending limit for Agricultural Cooperative Societies (Dairy) from ₹5 crore to ₹10 crore vide Master Direction dated 24.03.2025. This move enables banks to provide more credit support to Agricultural Cooperative Societies (Dairy), thereby strengthening agricultural infrastructure and boosting rural credit flow. 41. Sahakar Sarathi (Shared Service Entity): To provide technological services to Rural Cooperative Banks (RCBs) and for their strengthening, RBI has given in-principal approval to NABARD for setting up of Sahakar Sarathi (Shared Service Entity). 42. Ministry has constituted a Task Force under NAFCUB on ‘Transformation of Urban Cooperative Banks and Cooperative Credit Societies’. The task force has submitted two reports. 43. On the request of Ministry, NABARD has submitted a report on Reforms, Restructuring and innovation in Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs). 44. The Ministry has completed a detailed study through IRMA for National Cooperative Agriculture & Rural Development Banks' Federation Ltd. (NAFCARD), resulting in an approved Action Plan that guides lending expansion, promotes non-farm sector activities, and strengthens cooperative governance. 45. The Ministry has completed a strategic study to elevate NAFSCOB’s role in Amrit Kaal (2022–2047). It outlines reforms for cooperative credit, digital integration, financial service diversification, and institutional strengthening. With emphasis on governance, state-level capacity building, and inclusive outreach, the roadmap positions NAFSCOB to lead cooperative banking and drive sustainable rural development across India. C. Relief to Cooperative Societies in the Income Tax Act46. Surcharge reduced from 12% to 7% for co-operative societies having income between Rs. 1 to 10 Cr.: This will reduce the burden of Income Tax on Cooperative Societies and more capital will be available with them to work for the benefit of their members. 47. MAT reduced for cooperatives from 18.5% to 15%: With this provision, now there is parity between Cooperative Societies and Companies in this regard. 48. Relief in cash transactions under section 269ST of the Income Tax Act: In order to remove difficulties in cash transactions by cooperatives under Section 269ST of IT Act, Government has issued a clarification that cash transaction of less than Rs. 2 lakhs done by a cooperative society with its distributor in a day will be considered separately, and will not be charged with income tax penalty. 49. Tax cut for new manufacturing Cooperative societies: Government has decided that a flat lower tax rate of 15% will be charged, compared to an earlier rate of up to 30% plus surcharge, for new cooperatives commencing manufacturing activities by March 31, 2024. This will encourage the formation of new cooperative societies in the manufacturing sector. 50. Increase in limit of Cash Deposits and Payments by PACS and PCARDBs: Government has enhanced the limit for Cash Deposits and Payments by PACS and Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (PCARDBs) from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 2 lakh per member. This provision will facilitate their activities, increase their business and benefit members of their societies. 51. Increase in limit of Loan and Loan Repayments in Cash by PACS and PCARDBs: Government has enhanced the limit for Loan and Loan Repayments in Cash by PACS and Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (PCARDBs) from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 2 lakh per member. This provision will facilitate their activities, increase their business and benefit members of their societies. D. Revival of Cooperative Sugar Mills 52. Relief from Income Tax to Sugar Cooperative Mills: Government has issued a clarification that cooperative sugar mills would not be subjected to additional income tax for paying higher sugarcane prices to farmers up to Fair and Remunerative or State Advised Price, from April, 2016 onwards. 53. Resolution of decades old pending issues related to Income Tax of Sugar Cooperative Mills: Government has made a provision in its Union Budget 2023-24, wherein Sugar cooperatives have been allowed to claim as expenditure their payments to sugarcane farmers for the period prior to assessment year 2016–17, giving them a relief of more than Rs.46,000 crore. 54. Rs.10,000 crore loan scheme for strengthening of Sugar Cooperative Mills: Government launched a scheme through NCDC for setting up ethanol plants or cogeneration plants or for working capital or for all three purposes. Ministry has released Rs.1000 crore to NCDC (Rs.500 crore in FY 2022-23 and Rs.500 crore in FY 2024-25) under the scheme and NCDC has released Rs.10,005 crore to 56 CSMs.55. Preference to Cooperative Sugar Mills in purchase of ethanol: Cooperative Sugar Mills have now been put at par with private companies for ethanol procurement by Government of India under the Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP). 56. Strengthening of Cooperative Sugar Mills by converting their molasses-based ethanol plants into multi feed ethanol plants: Ministry of Cooperation has taken initiative in consultation with National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Ltd. (NFCSFL) for conversion of existing molasses-based ethanol plants of CSMs into multi feed ethanol plants. The Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs) also produce ethanol from molasses and sugar syrup by installing ethanol production plants. However, the availability of raw material i.e., molasses and sugar syrup for production of ethanol is limited by many factors viz, Government Policy on diversion of sugarcane syrup, B heavy molasses for production of ethanol and duration of sugar cane crushing season and availability of sugarcane depending on rainfall, etc. On account of these limiting factors, the CSMs having ethanol plants are not able to operate them at full capacity round the year. The Government of India has prioritized maize for production of ethanol; therefore, it is prudent for CSMs to convert their existing ethanol production units into multi-feed ethanol production units so that they are able to produce ethanol by using maize as raw material. While NCDC has agreed to provide loan for this purpose, DFPD has launched a scheme exclusively for cooperative sugar mills to provide interest subvention at the rate of 6% per annum or 50% of the actual interest, whichever is lower, for a period of 5 years on their loan. Further, OMCs shall give Priority-1 to CSMs, who will benefit from the Interest Subvention Scheme, for ethanol procurement, enabling transition from single feedstock to multi-feedstock. 57. Reduction in GST on molasses from 28% to 5%: Government has decided to reduce the GST on molasses from 28% to 5% which will enable cooperative sugar mills to earn more profits for their members by selling molasses to distilleries with higher margins. 58. Revival of closed Cooperative Sugar Mills: Indian Potash Limited on the suggestions of Ministry of Cooperation, has taken an initiative for the revival of closed Cooperative Sugar Mills. On 08.03.2025, Hon’ble Home and Cooperation Minister performed the “Bhoomi Pujan” ceremony for the revival and modernization of Shri Bileshwar Khand Udyog Khedut Sahakari Mandali Ltd., Kodinar and Shri Talala Taluka Sahakari Khand Udhyog Mandali Ltd., Talala. In addition to this, IPL is also taking steps for the revival of Shri Valsad Sahakari Khand Udhyog Mandali, Ltd., Valsad. These steps will benefit thousands of farmers of the area where above cooperative Sugar Mills are located. E. Three new National Level Multi-State Societies 59. New National Multi-State Cooperative Seed Society for certified seeds: Government has established a new apex multi-state cooperative seed society under the MSCS Act, 2002, namely Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) as an umbrella organization to focus on production, testing, certification, procurement, processing, storage, branding, labelling and packaging of all two generations of seeds i.e. foundation and certified, through PACS by leveraging various schemes and policies of different ministries of the Government of India. BBSSL has launched its seed under the brand ‘Bharat Beej’. So far, 22,995 PACS/ Cooperative Societies have become members of BBSSL60. New National Multi-State Cooperative Organic Society for organic farming: Government has established a new apex multi-state cooperative organic society under the MSCS Act, 2002, namely National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) as an umbrella organization to provide institutional support for aggregation, certification, testing, procurement, storage, processing, branding, labelling, packaging, logistic facilities, marketing of organic products and facilitate in arranging financial assistance to the organic farmers through its member Cooperatives including PACS/FPOs along with promotional and developmental activities of organic products with the help of various schemes and agencies of the Government. So far, 7,031 PACS/ cooperative societies have become members of NCOL. NCOL has launched its products under brand name of “Bharat Organics”. So far 25 organic products (Arhar Dal, Brown Chana, Chana Dal, Kabuli Chana, Masoor Malka, Masoor Split, Masoor Whole, Moong Dhuli, Moong Split, Moong Whole, Rajma Chitra, Urad Dal, Urad Gota, Urad Split, Urad Whole, Wheat Atta, Jaggery Cube, Jaggery Powder, Brown Sugar, Khandsari Sugar, Coriander Powder, Turmeric Powder, Fenugreek, Coriander Whole, Apple Cider Vinegar) under Bharat Organics brand are available in Delhi-NCR. Bharat Organics products are 100% batch tested for 245+ pesticides in accredited laboratories. 61. New National Multi-State Cooperative Export Society for promoting exports: Government has established a new apex multi-state cooperative export society under the MSCS Act, 2002, namely National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL) as an umbrella organization to focus on exporting the surpluses available in the Indian cooperative sector by accessing wider markets beyond the geographical contours of the country, thereby, increasing the demand of Indian Cooperative products/services across the globe and fetch best possible prices for such products/services. It will promote exports through various activities including procurement, storage, processing, marketing, branding, labelling, packaging, certification, research and development, etc, and trading of all types of goods and services produced by cooperative societies. So far, 9,425 PACS/ cooperative societies have become members of NCEL. NCEL has so far exported approximately 13.09 LMT of Agri commodities like Rice, Wheat, Maize, Sugar, Onion, Cumin seed, etc., worth Rs. 5,397 Crore. During the financial year 2023-24, a dividend of 20% was provided by NCEL to its member cooperatives. 62. Establishment of Beej Anusandhan Kendra (BAK): Hon’ble Home and Cooperation Minister on 6th April 2025 laid the foundation stone for the Beej Anusandhan Kendra, a state-of-the-art research center in Kalol, Gujarat. “Beej Anusandhan Kendra” will play a pivotal role in enhancing farmers’ economic prosperity while also actively promoting innovation and inclusive growth in the agriculture sector. International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), and Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) have formally entered into a Tripartite Service Agreement on 3rd June 2025 to establish the Beej Anusandhan Kendra. 63. Initiative to set up tissue culture facilities for Banana: Due to the availability of bananas throughout the year, affordability, taste, nutritional value, and medicinal properties, bananas are in high demand both domestically and internationally, with significant export potential. Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Limited (BBSSL) has decided to set up Tissue Culture Facility (TCF) for banana in the States of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. Throughthese facilities, BBSSL will maintain ‘true to the type’ mother plants, produce tissue- cultured banana saplings/plantlets and distribute 100% disease-free saplings/plantlets to farmers. This will ensure high-quality planting materials are available to farmers and that sustainable growth in their income is ensured. 64. Initiative to conserve and preserve traditional natural seeds: Growing interest of farmers towards chemical-free Indian traditional natural farming methods, in all likelihood, will increase the demand for traditional natural seeds. Therefore, concerted effort is required for the conservation, reproduction, and promotion of these seeds. "Bhartiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL)" has taken initiative to identify natural seeds of indigenous plant variants, including but not restricted to seeds of food grain, vegetables, fruits, etc. and to develop a system for their preservation, conservation, breeding, production, distribution, promotion and all other activities needed. State Governments and Technical institutions engaged in the area of promotion of natural indigenous seeds have been requested to provide every possible administrative, institutional, and technical support to BBSSL to advance this important work at the national level. F. Capacity Building in Cooperatives 65. Establishment of Cooperative University: The Ministry of Cooperation has established a national-level university in the cooperative sector, namely, “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University (TSU) by converting the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA). It has been established and declared as an institution of national importance through an Act of Parliament. In this regard, “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025 was passed by the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha on 1st April and 26th March,2025 respectively. Thereafter, assent was also obtained from the Hon’ble President on the bill on 3rd April 2025. Further, the Gazette notification for commencement of the Act and for establishment of the university were issued on 4th April, 2025, establishing the university w.e.f. 6th April 2025. Since the University has been established after converting an existing institute, that is, Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), it has become functional immediately. Further, the appointment of officiating Vice-Chancellor, Registrar & Finance officer has already been done. Governing Board of the University and Executive Council have also been constituted and Statutes of the University have been notified. Moreover, the land for construction of additional infrastructure has also been allotted by the Government of Gujarat on a lease basis for 50 years and the foundation stone laying has also been done for the new building of the University on 5th July 2025. Seven Committees have been constituted to expedite the operationalization of the university. These committees are headed by AS/JS level Officer of the Ministry and one of the committees is headed by VC of TSU. 66. The Ministry has completed a comprehensive national-level study on the National Labour Cooperative Federation (NLCF) through AFC India Ltd., generating strategic recommendations to reposition NLCF as a business-driven entity with improved infrastructure, diversified services, and robust training initiatives.67. The Ministry has completed an Impact Assessment Study to evaluate the effectiveness of measures undertaken by the Ministry, generating actionable insights to further enhance cooperative sector resilience and inclusivity through LINAC. 68. The Ministry of Cooperation has commissioned a strategic study to assess NCUI’s growth potential during Amrit Kaal (2022–2047). Conducted by AFC India Ltd., the study aims to ensure compliance with Section 24 of the MSCS Act, modernize cooperative education, develop a 25-year growth roadmap, and strengthen NCUI’s governance, outreach, training infrastructure, and role in cooperative sector development nationwide. 69. The Ministry of Cooperation has launched a national study through AFC India Ltd. to boost FISHCOPFED’s business growth during Amrit Kaal (2022–2047). It aims to achieve 25% growth via diversification, governance reforms, digital outreach, and cooperative strengthening. Covering six states and multiple stakeholder levels, the study will generate strategic plans to modernize fisheries cooperatives and enhance their socio-economic impact nationwide. 70. Special Module on Cooperatives in India: Under the guidance of the Ministry of Cooperation, and in consultation with the NCERT, the NCCT has designed and prepared a Special Module on Cooperation which aims to bring awareness among school students about the role of cooperatives in nation building so that they are encouraged to choose cooperatives as a career. The Special Module will be introduced for the Secondary stage students of NCERT Schools. 71. Cooperatives in Schools: NCERT has included chapter on cooperatives for Class 6 in its school curriculum under persuasion by NCCT with the direction of Ministry of Cooperation which help the class students to be aware of cooperative movement in brief. 72. Strengthening of Finance: A new Object Head “Grants-in-Aid General” for NCCT has been opened by the Ministry of Cooperation which will enable NCCT to continue crucial work in Cooperative Training and Education to fulfill mission of strengthening cooperation. Earlier, most of the funds for training purposes were met out of Training and Development Fund (TDF) which is meant for meeting the liabilities on repair and infrastructure development. Since this was not feasible in the long run, opening of new head will ease the pressure on TDF Fund and it will be available for the purposes it is meant. 73. Constitution of Building Sub-Committee for each Institute of NCCT to ensure timely Building infrastructure Development. 74. Utilisation of Training Development Fund/ Building Fund: Sanction accorded to various Institutes to utilise their Training Development Fund/ Building Fund for the purpose of renovation / Repair of Building infrastructure and purchase of Fixed Assets (office equipments etc.) 75. A new 3 storied International Hostel has been added to the existing infrastructure at VAMNICOM with capacity of 50 twin sharing rooms participants and 3 no. of VIP suites. The hostel also has Kitchen, Dining Hall, Reading room, a classroom of 50 capacity, adiscussion room, a gymnasium and an office space. This building has been constructed out of the Capital Grant of Rs.30 crore received from Ministry of Cooperation, Govt. of India. 76. New Course: VAMNICOM has initiated to launch a new programme PGDM-Cooperation for the Academic year 2025 affiliated to AICTE New Delhi with an intake capacity of 30 students. The GD (Group Discussion) and PI (Personal Interview) of the programme is scheduled to be held on 20th July 2025 at VAMNICOM, Pune. 77. Pilot Project – comprehensive training for PACS: Pilot Project was undertaken for training of Members, Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officers/ Secretaries of PACS in four districts of four states namely; Una (Himachal Pradesh), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), Sambalpur (Odisha), and Theni (Tamil Nadu). The contents of the training included topics like concept and benefits of cooperatives, roles and responsibilities of the above-mentioned categories of cooperative personnel, Model Bye-Laws with opportunities for business diversification, etc. Under the project, a total of 85,219 participants belonging to 284 PACS were trained in 4 States. Wide publicity was given by posting the photographs and content on all social media platforms. 78. Training Programme for PACS for CSC Portal: NCCT in collaboration with CSC e- Governance Services India Limited, conducted Training Programmes for PACS on-boarded into CSC Portal. The objective of the Training programmes was to train the Secretaries/ Computer operators of 30,000 PACS for diversifying the business activities of Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies through 300 Services of CSC portal. A total of 648 programmes conducted and trained 30210 PACS participants from 564 districts spread across 25 states. 79. Training Programme for Newly Established Multi-Purpose Cooperative Societies: During the month of July, 2025, the NCCT has started conducting the training programmes for newly established MPCS on the directions of Ministry. As on 20.06.2025, a total of 22283 MPCS have been established in the country (As per NCD Portal) all of which may be covered for the training purpose. 80. Capacity Building and Training Programmes under PMFBY/ RWBCIS: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between National Council for Cooperative Training (NCCT) and Crop Insurance Division of Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW), GoI, New Delhi on 20.01.2025. The objective of the MoU is to enable a larger ecosystem for creating a capacity building and knowledge management framework under PMFBY/ RWBCIS Schemes. Accordingly, NCCT has submitted a proposal to MoA&FW for conducting 200 training programmes and to train 10,000 participants of PACS, which is under their consideration at present. 81. Launch of Academic Journal – RICM, Chandigarh has launched a biannual peer- reviewed journal titled “Sahkarita Anusandhan – A Multidisciplinary Journal of Social Science” has been launched to promote research and knowledge dissemination in the field of cooperatives and social sciences82. Revival of PGDM-ABM Programme: RICM, Chandigarh has taken initiative to revive the Post Graduate Diploma in Management – Agri-Business Management (PGDM-ABM), duly approved by AICTE. G. Use of Information Technology for ‘Ease of Doing Business’ 83. Computerization of the Central Registrar’s Office: Central Registrar’s office has been computerized to create a digital ecosystem for Multi-State Cooperative Societies, which is assisting in processing applications and service requests in a time bound manner. 84. Scheme for computerization of office of RCSs in States/ Union Territories: Centrally sponsored project for computerization of RCS offices in States/Union Territories has been approved by the Central Government on 06.10.2023 with a budgetary outlay of Rs.94.59 crore for three years w.e.f. 2023-24. This is a part of the umbrella project of “Strengthening Cooperatives Through IT Interventions” of the Ministry. The project aims to enhance the ease of doing business for Cooperative Societies and create a digital ecosystem for transparent paperless interaction of cooperative societies with the RCS offices in all States/Union Territories. Under the project, grants are being provided to the States/ UTs for procurement of hardware, development of software, maintenance & upgradation of software, etc. The software developed under this scheme will be as per the Cooperative Acts of the respective States/UTs. During the financial years 2023-24, 2024-25 and 2025- 26 (up to 30th June 2025), 35 States/UTs have submitted their proposals, and Rs 19.73 crore has been released as the Government of India share to States/UTs. 85. Computerization of Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs): To strengthen the long-term cooperative credit structure, the project of computerization of 1,867 units of Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) spread across 13 States/ Union Territories has been approved by the Government. NABARD is the implementing agency for the project. So far, proposals from 10 States/UTs have been received and sanctioned. Further, GOI share amounting to Rs 7.18 crore has been released to 10 States/UTs in FY 2023-24 and FY 2024-25 for procurement of hardware, digitization and setting up of support system. H. Steps taken by National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) 86. Increase in loan disbursement: Disbursement of financial assistance by NCDC has increased almost 4 times from ₹24,733.20 crore in FY 2020-21 to ₹95,182.84 crore in FY 2024-25. NCDC has achieved more than 40% CAGR in disbursement during these four years. 87. Introduction of Floating Interest Rate: NCDC took a significant step in reforming its financial system by introducing floating interest rate. This step resulted in reduction of term loan interest rate by about 2%. Floating interest rate means that the interest rate changes depending on the market conditions and other financial factors, thereby providing the benefit of lower interest rate to the end borrowers. 88. Adoption of Differential Rate: NCDC adopted the differential rate mechanism, under which different interest rates are provided to different loan borrowers. This mechanism customizes the loan rate keeping in view the financial status of the borrowers and theircapacity, so that the borrowers get financial assistance at better rates according to their situation. 89. Registration under CGTMSE, CGSFPO & CGFT-AHD: This step enables cooperatives to get collateral free loans from NCDC. 90. MoU between NDDB and NCDC: NCDC and National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on financing, training and capacity building of dairy cooperatives. Under this agreement, both the institutions will together provide financial and technical assistance to empower small producers in the dairy sector, thereby increasing the income of farmers and strengthening dairy societies. 91. Appraisal of large projects of other lenders by NCDC: NCDC has started appraisal of large projects of other lenders who do not have the required expertise. For instance, NCDC appraised three dairy projects for Gujarat State Cooperative Bank, wherein detailed review and evaluation of the projects was done. 92. Expansion of geographical reach: NCDC has expanded its geographical reach by opening a new Regional Office at Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh) and new Sub-offices in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Sikkim, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Nagaland. 93. Appointment of Young Professionals: NCDC has appointed young professionals having expertise in various fields. This includes 12 CA/CMA/Inter, 31 MBA and other young professionals. This move is aimed towards increasing the efficiency of the Corporation. 94. Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited (India’s first Cooperative led Mobility platform): Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited is an innovative, cooperative-based mobility solution designed to empower drivers and provide affordable, reliable transportation to the public. Rooted in the principles of cooperation, transparency and shared ownership, Sahakar Taxi stands as a people-centric alternative to traditional ride-hailing platforms. The project is promoted by National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) alongwith by seven other leading organisations Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED), Anand Milk Union Limited (AMUL), Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO), National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL) and National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). This project has been named as “Bharat Taxi”. 95. Grant-in-aid to NCDC: It was announced in the Budget 2025-26 speech by Hon’ble Finance Minister that Government of India will provide assistance to NCDC for its lending operations for the cooperative sector. Accordingly, the Expenditure Finance Committee in its meeting held on 09.06.2025 recommended a grant of ₹2000 crore to NCDC. Based on receipt of ₹2000 crore from the Government over 4 years, NCDC will be able to raise ₹20,000 crore from the market. These funds will be used by NCDC for providing long term and working capital loans to cooperative sectors such as dairy, poultry, fisheries and textiles. The proposal is expected to be approved by the Cabinet shortly.96. New Proposed Scheme for Cooperative Sector: A new scheme on the lines of CSISAC is being formulated for development of cooperatives through NCDC. With an outlay of ₹24,000 crore, the scheme will benefit 29,050 cooperative societies and more than one crore members. 97. Cooperative Intern: 385 cooperative interns are being recruited covering all Rural Cooperative Banks (State Cooperative Banks and District Cooperative Banks). The scheme aims to develop the overall capacity of cooperative organisations and promote digital and business skills at the grassroots level. The interns are being given a monthly remuneration of ₹25,000, which is reimbursed from the Cooperative Education Fund (CEF). NCDC is monitoring the implementation of the scheme. So far, 225 trainees have been selected. I. Creation of National Cooperative Database (NCD) 98. New National Cooperative Database for authentic and updated data repository: A comprehensive database of cooperatives in the country has been developed with the support of State Governments to facilitate stakeholders in policy making and implementation of programmes/ schemes related to cooperatives across the country. So far, the database includes data on around 8.4 lakh cooperatives from 30 different sectors, involving approximately 32 crore members. 99. Cooperative Ranking Framework: The Government launched the Cooperative Ranking Framework on 24th January 2025 to assess and rank cooperatives State-wise and sector- wise. This ranking framework enables State RCS to assess Cooperative Societies’ performance based on key parameters, including audit compliance, operational activities, financial performance, infrastructure, and basic identity information. The RCS of the States/ UTs can generate rankings of Cooperative Societies, initially of 7 major sectors namely PACS, Dairy, Fishery, Urban Cooperative Banks, Housing, Credit and Thrift, and Khadi and Gram Udyog through NCD portal. This ranking system aims to enhance transparency, reliability and competitiveness among cooperative societies, ultimately fostering their growth. Furthermore, top-performing cooperative societies in each sector will be recognized and honoured by the Ministry of Cooperation and respective State/ UT authorities, aligning with the objectives of the International Year of Cooperatives. 100. Facility for States / UTs to fetch data through API from NCD portal: The Ministry of Cooperation (MoC) has successfully completed the development of a standard API for pushing entire data of cooperative societies of the State from NCD portal to the States / UTs. A detailed Standard API Specification Document, database schema and State-specific access key for secure API access have been shared with all State/UT Registrar of Cooperative Societies (RCS) offices on 27.05.2025. These documents aim to facilitate the integration of the State/UT RCS applications with the NCD portal, ensuring that data updates on the NCD portal occur automatically and in real-time via API-based integration. As per the integration plan, it is also essential for States/UTs to develop a reverse/pull API at their end to fetch the relevant data from the NCD portal into their local systems / RCS portals. This two-way integration will ensure synchronization of cooperative data across platforms. J. Policy and Outreach101. National Cooperation Policy (NCP): The formulation of New National Cooperation Policy (NCP) has been envisaged to fulfil the mandate of the Ministry of Cooperation - "Sahakar se Samriddhi." A National level committee was constituted on 02.09.2022 under Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu with experts of the cooperative sector, representatives from National/ State/ District/ Primary level cooperative societies, Secretaries (Cooperation) and RCSs from States/ UTs and officers from Central Ministries/ Departments to formulate the New Cooperation Policy to provide a framework to unlock the true potential of the Cooperative sector. The Committee conducted four regional workshops throughout the country to elicit suggestions from stakeholders. The received suggestions were incorporated into the draft policy appropriately. Subsequently, the National Cooperation Policy was launched on 24.7.2025. 102. International Year of Cooperatives – 2025 in India: The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC 2025) to highlight the role of cooperatives in economic growth, social inclusion, and sustainability. The Ministry of Cooperation has developed an action plan in collaboration with all the stakeholders of cooperative sector emphasizing transparency, policy reforms, and rural economic transformation through PACS. This Action Plan was launched by Hon’ble Home and Cooperation Minister on 24.01.2025. For coordinated planning and implementation, the Ministry constituted IYC-National Cooperative Committee, IYC-National Execution Committee, and IYC-State Apex Committees. Further, actions for IYC were also included in Terms of References of the State Cooperative Development Committees and District Cooperative Development Committees. During IYC-2025 extensive awareness and outreach campaigns have been carried out, ensuring nationwide visibility of the IYC logo through Indian Railways E-tickets, cooperative product packaging, official websites and official communications. Key national-level initiatives included the successful organization of the National Conference of State Cooperation Ministers on 30th June, 2025 and national event on 06th July, 2025 on the occasion of 4th Foundation Day of the Ministry of Cooperation at Anand, Gujarat. A dedicated plantation drive under “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign during IYC is being undertaken with active participation of all the stakeholders, along with various capacity-building activities, exhibitions, and cooperative promotion drives, reflecting its commitment to making IYC 2025 a landmark year for the cooperative movement. 103. Strengthening Media Outreach of the Ministry: Over the past four years, the Ministry of Cooperation has significantly strengthened its digital and media outreach to enhance public engagement and awareness about the cooperative sector. Leveraging both traditional and digital platforms, the Ministry, in collaboration with PIB, has consistently published Press Releases, articles in leading newspapers, while simultaneously expanding its presence across social media. All national-level events chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister and the Hon’ble Home and Cooperation Minister are live-streamed on the Ministry’s YouTube channel. Press releases, news updates, and achievements are regularly shared on the official website, with multilingual access for wider inclusion. Today, the Ministry’s combined following across platforms—including X (Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and WhatsApp—stands at over 6 lakh followers/subscribers, with total video viewership crossing 1.4 crore views on YouTube. Notably, the Ministry ofCooperation ranks 4th among all Ministries on YouTube and 7th in website engagement and traffic, reflecting its growing digital impact. Special campaigns and posts on landmark initiatives consistently garner high engagement, especially during major events and national observances. 104. Promotion of Cooperative Awareness through Monthly Publications: To enhance outreach, awareness, and capacity-building within the cooperative sector, the Ministry of Cooperation is publishing two monthly magazines—Sahakar Uday (through IFFCO) and Sahakar Jagran (through NCUI)—since April 2023. Published in Hindi, English, and 11 regional languages, these magazines serve as vital platforms for disseminating information about key policies, schemes, initiatives, and success stories of the Ministry and the wider cooperative movement. Sahakar Uday has been publishing nearly 3 lakh copies monthly, while Sahakar Jagran has a circulation of about 2.75 lakh copies every month. These publications help inform and empower cooperative members at the grassroots level by providing timely, relevant, and inspirational content. K. Multi-State Cooperative Societies 105. Multi-State Co-operative Societies (Amendment) Act, 2023: Amendment has been brought in the MSCS Act, 2002 to strengthen governance, enhance transparency, increase accountability, reform electoral process and incorporate provisions of 97th Constitutional Amendment in the Multi State Cooperative Societies. 106. Cooperative Ombudsman: Following the amendment in the Multi–State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002, Cooperative Ombudsman has been appointed under Section 85A of the said Act vide gazette notification dated 05.03.2024. The Ombudsman office is fully functional and deals with complaints or appeals, from members of the MSCS regarding their deposits, equitable benefits of the Multi–State Co-operative Society’s functioning or any other issue affecting the individual rights of the concerned member. 107. Cooperative Election Authority (CEA): Following the amendment in the Multi–State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002, the Cooperative Election Authority has been set up to strengthen governance and accountability, with a mandate to conduct free and fair election in all MSCSs. Elections in more than 135 MSCS have been conducted successfully up to June, 2025. 108. Inclusion of Cooperatives as ‘buyers’ on GeM portal: The Government has permitted cooperatives to register as ‘buyer’ on GeM, enabling them to procure goods and services from over 67 lakh vendors to facilitate economical purchases and greater transparency. So far, 574 cooperative societies have been onboarded on GeM as buyers. 109. Refund to Investors of Sahara Group of Societies: A portal has been launched for making payments to the genuine depositors of the cooperative societies of Sahara Group in a transparent manner. Disbursements have already started after proper identification and submission of proof of their deposits and claims. So far, Rs. 4548.09 crores have been disbursed to 22.56 lakh applicants.L. Other initiatives 110. Enhancing market access to cooperative products through quick commerce platform of Swiggy instamart: Ministry of Cooperation has entered into an MoU with Swiggy Limited on 25.04.2025 to collaborate to enhance the digital and market integration of cooperative products, facilitate policy discussions, and drive consumer engagement with the cooperative sector, with an aim to promote Indian cooperative sector and realize the vision of 'Sahkar se Samriddhi'. The purpose of this MoU is to establish a strategic partnership between MoC and Swiggy to enhance digital integration and market access for cooperative products, particularly in the dairy and organic sector, and facilitate capacity building for cooperatives in areas such as digital marketing, logistics, and consumer technology. The Scope of the MoU includes the following: I. Swiggy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Cooperation, would engage on awareness campaign for cooperative movement/ organisations/ products in India. II. Encourage onboarding of cooperative dairy products and support for preferred access through Swiggy's Instamart platform for cooperatives. III. Swiggy, in collaboration with the ministry, will support the cooperative brands in the areas of marketing, promotion, consumer technology and capacity building efforts. IV. Swiggy will create a separate cooperative category on its platform, with a focus on brands promoted by cooperative organisations for products such as Organics, Dairy, Millets, Handicrafts, etc. V. The initiative will enhance digital access, create sustainable growth opportunities, maximize the impact of cooperatives in the digital economy, and capacity building for cooperatives through mutually agreed upon projects. 111. Ministry of Cooperation is committed for redressal of grievances in an effective and time bound manner. During 2023-2024 Ministry of Cooperation has disposed more than 31,000 grievances received through CPGRAMS portal with the lowest average closing time of 2 days. 112. The Ministry has successfully transferred the Cooperative Education Fund (CEF) account from NCUI to the Ministry of Cooperation following the enactment of the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (Amendment) Act, 2023, and instituted a dedicated framework for its management and utilization. 113. Sustainability and Circularity in the Dairy Sector: An important objective added to White Revolution 2.0 is the promotion of sustainability and circularity in the dairy sector. The strategy to achieve the objective would be to embed sustainability and circularity across the dairy value chain by promoting climate-smart practices, efficient resource use, and renewable solutions to build a low-emission, income-generating ecosystem. Hon’ble Home & Cooperation Minister inaugurated a workshop on this issue on 03.03.2025. The action for sustainability and circularity in the dairy sector is guided by the vision of “Gold out of Garbage (कचरे स े कंचन)”. Under this initiative, it is envisaged to set up three multi-state cooperative societies for the following activities: i. For the production of animal feed, disease control, and artificial insemination. ii. For the management of cow and buffalo dung. iii. For the management of hides, bones, and horns of dead cattle and buffaloes.114. Establishment of Sardar Patel Cooperative Dairy Federation Limited (SPCDF): A new Multi-state Cooperative Society by name Sardar Patel Cooperative Dairy Federation Limited (SPCDF) has been launched by Hon’ble Home & Cooperation Minister on 06.07.2025, with an initial capital of ₹ 200 crore. SPCDF will enable more than 20 lakh dairy farmers from over 20,000 villages in 20 states (Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Telangana) to become direct members of an organized cooperative structure. Through SPCDF, farmers will benefit from assured milk procurement, improved veterinary care, enhanced cattle nutrition, and modern dairy practices. Investments in robust cold chain infrastructure, chilling centers, and efficient processing facilities will further strengthen quality standards and support the rising demand for safe, hygienic dairy products. ***