The Tripura state government has prioritized strengthening the cooperative sector to drive rural economic development, recognizing its vital role in the state’s overall progress. Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha emphasized this while inaugurating the state-level conference on ‘Cooperative Promotion and Development’ at Rabindra Centenary Bhavan in Agartala on Tuesday.
The conference, jointly organized by the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI), the State Cooperative Department, and the State Cooperative Union, marks the International Year of Cooperatives 2025.
The Chief Minister stressed that a strong rural economy leads to a strong state and nation. He noted that the state government regularly organizes Cooperative Week to raise awareness and formulate future policies. He also credited Home Minister Amit Shah for revitalizing the cooperative movement in India through the establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation in 2021.
Highlighting key initiatives, he spoke about PACS computerization, diversification of cooperative services, establishment of Common Service Centers (CSCs), and the formation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Other efforts include granting LPG distributorships to PACS/LAMPS, issuing dealership licenses for fuel stations, and upgrading PACS to function as Prime Minister Kisan Samridhi Kendras. Currently, 4,305 professional cooperative societies in Tripura engage over 9 lakh people in various activities.
Dileep Sanghani, President of the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI), underscored the transformative role of cooperatives in India’s economic growth, particularly in Tripura.
He highlighted that several nationwide initiatives have been launched as part of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 celebrations. Expressing optimism, Sanghani stated that cooperatives would play a key role in realizing India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy.
Cooperation Minister Shuklacharan Noatia reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening cooperatives under the theme ‘Prosperity through Cooperation’ and ensuring their benefits reach all levels of society.
The event also featured a welcome address by Dr. Sudhir Mahajan, Chief Executive of NCUI, and a vote of thanks by Tapas Roy, Secretary of the Cooperative Department.
As part of the International Year of Cooperatives celebrations, winners of the state-level Cooperative Olympiad competition were felicitated. The Chief Minister presented certificates and mementos to the top three winners and awarded consolation prizes to two participants.
