Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, inaugurated several initiatives to strengthen the cooperative sector in Tripura on Sunday which included the launch of the Smart Training Center by the Tripura State Cooperative Union, distribution of mini seed kits to 500 farmers through NCCF, and an MoU between National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Tripura State Organic Farming Development Agency, among others.
Cooperative petrol pumps and a consumer store in Dhalai district were also inaugurated. Additionally, 50 primary cooperative societies of the Tripura State Cooperative Bank have been provided with micro ATMs, enhancing financial inclusion in rural areas.
Shah emphasized that Tripura produces over 70% organic products, but most are uncertified. He urged farmers to connect with NCOL through cooperative institutions for land and product certification, which will improve market access and profitability.
The Mobile Rural Marts initiative, launched in collaboration with NABARD, aims to provide essential items like pulses, rice, and wheat flour at affordable prices in five districts under the India brand.
Over 35 cooperative institutions in Tripura have applied for membership in national-level multipurpose cooperative societies, facilitating access to quality seeds, organic product markets, and global connections for farmers’ produce. Shah also highlighted the transformative potential of organic farming, which enriches the land, conserves groundwater, promotes health, and offers environmental benefits. He assured farmers that NCOL will help them secure at least 30% higher prices within two to three years.
Currently, Tripura has 3,138 cooperatives across sectors such as dairy, fisheries, consumer goods, livestock, and poultry. Shah criticized previous governments for mismanaging cooperatives, using them for political recruitment, and causing financial losses. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, cooperatives are now being revitalized to uplift communities and improve livelihoods.
The Union Minister announced the implementation of Prime Minister Modi’s food storage scheme, which will
establish 2,000 metric ton capacity warehouses on a cooperative basis across Tripura. This initiative will ensure no tehsil in the state lacks proper storage facilities, reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening food security. Out of 57 initiatives introduced by the Ministry of Cooperation, Tripura has already implemented 41, marking significant progress.
Shah reiterated the government’s vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” (prosperity through cooperation). He lauded Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in elevating India’s global economic position from 11th to 5th and projected India’s rise to 3rd place by 2027. Beyond economic growth, the government is committed to ensuring inclusive prosperity by providing education, healthcare, and happiness for all Indians through cooperative efforts.
Shah said India has over 8 lakh cooperatives involving 350 million people. Successful models like Amul, IFFCO, KRIBHCO, and NAFED demonstrate the potential of cooperatives across sectors, including banking, agriculture, medical support, and fertilizers. Shah emphasized that the cooperative movement is crucial for farmers in Tripura to achieve prosperity for themselves and their families.
The event also witnessed the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, Cooperation Ministry Secretary Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, and other dignitaries.
