In a statement given in the Rajya Sabha, Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said that government has been actively releasing funds for the computerization of PACS across various states and Union Territories over three financial years starting from 2022-23. The total amount allocated for this project is Rs 6,54,22,53,520.
Maharashtra emerged as the highest beneficiary, receiving Rs 1,21,59,50,000. This substantial support underscores Maharashtra’s significant number of PACS requiring computerization.
Rajasthan follows with Rs 67,07,86,131, indicating a robust push towards digitalization in the state’s cooperative sector. Madhya Pradesh received Rs 58,65,25,000 over two financial years, reflecting a major effort to enhance its PACS infrastructure.
Gujarat received a notable allocation of Rs 58,30,00,000 in FY 2023-24, while Uttar Pradesh was allocated Rs 53,58,41,650 in the same year for extensive PACS computerization. Karnataka consistently received funding over the years, amounting to Rs 55,64,00,000, indicating widespread implementation efforts.
On the other end of the spectrum, Arunachal Pradesh received the least support with Rs 27,00,000, reflecting either fewer PACS or less requirement for computerization. Ladakh was allocated Rs 12,00,000, possibly due to the limited number of societies. Mizoram also saw a low allocation of Rs 27,00,000, which aligns with its smaller cooperative sector.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands received Rs 68,81,462 exclusively in FY 2023-24, while Puducherry had consistent but low funding amounting to Rs 60,75,000. Ladakh and Andaman and Nicobar Islands marked their first allocations in FY 2023-24, highlighting new entrants in the funding scheme.
The Government’s substantial investment in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh emphasizes a focus on states with extensive cooperative networks. In contrast, lower allocations to states like Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram suggest a smaller scale of cooperative societies needing digital upgrades.
Consistent funding for states such as Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh over multiple years indicates ongoing efforts to complete PACS computerization projects.
The distribution of funds shows a targeted approach, with the highest allocations directed towards states with a large number of PACS, ensuring robust development of the cooperative sector’s digital infrastructure. Conversely, states with fewer PACS received minimal funding, aligning with their specific requirements.