“To emerge as a global superpower, India must prioritize its development, and there is no better path to progress than through cooperation,” stated former Union Minister CA Suresh Prabhu.
Prabhu was speaking at the ‘Sahakar Sabhagruha’ during his visit to Cosmos Bank’s head office on University Road in Pune, addressing the theme of the ‘Proposed New National Cooperative Policy.’
Prabhu emphasized that India’s potential must be fully harnessed to drive the nation’s growth, with cooperation playing a pivotal role. “The progress of individuals and society is indispensable, and cooperation is the vehicle through which we can achieve this. We need to build an economy that remains on a sustained growth trajectory, ensuring that farmers, laborers, women, youth, and emerging entrepreneurs receive the support they need,” he said.
He further highlighted that rural development, through cooperative efforts, is a critical focus of the ‘New National Cooperative Policy,’ which aims to create new opportunities for business in these areas. The policy has been carefully crafted to address these challenges, and Mr. Prabhu underscored that significant measures are already underway to implement it effectively.
Adding to the discussion, Cosmos Bank Chairman CA Milind Kale stated, “To strengthen the country’s economy, a new and comprehensive strategy for the cooperative sector is being developed. The sector faces mounting challenges, and modern technology, as well as robust financial support, are necessary to offer top-tier products and services. Both the Central and State Governments are working on an inclusive policy that will empower the cooperative sector.”
Speaking at the event, Vidyadhar Anaskar, Senior Cooperator, echoed the sentiment of cooperation as a collective effort. “For the success of the cooperative policy, it’s vital that everyone works together with a shared vision.
“Alongside the new policy, a detailed implementation plan has been devised that will benefit the cooperative sector immensely,” he noted. Anaskar also commended the Central Government’s decision to establish a separate Ministry of Cooperation, adding that it has given much-needed momentum to the sector.
He further stressed that while the cooperative movement has been government-led, its ultimate goal remains the prosperity of the common man. Cooperation, he concluded, is the driving force behind these efforts.
Other prominent attendees included Sharad Gangal, Chairman of Thane Janta Sahakari Bank; Dr. Hema Yadav, Director of the Vaikunth Mehta National Institute of Cooperative Management (VAMNICOM); and Prabhat Chaturvedi from the Umbrella Organization, all of whom shared their insights during the session.
The event saw a strong turnout, with numerous Chairmen, Directors, Executive Officers, and other office-bearers from various cooperative institutions in attendance.