A meeting of the District Cooperative Development Committee (DCDC) took place at the District Administrative Centre to strengthen the Primary Agriculture Credit, Dairy, and Fishery Cooperative Societies across various Gram Panchayats in Sikkim.
The gathering was part of a Joint Working Committee (JWC) initiative to enhance the functioning of rural cooperatives.
The meeting, chaired by District Collector and DCDC Chairperson Ms. Yishey D. Yongda, saw participation from key district officials, including ADC Ms. Rajani Sharma, Additional Director of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services Dr. N.M. Cintury, Joint Director of the Cooperative Department Ms. Laden Gensapa, Deputy Director of Fisheries Mr. Duchen Lepcha, NABARD Assistant General Manager Mr. Rupen Lamichaney, and SISCO Branch Head Mr. K.T. Bhutia.
The agenda followed guidelines issued by the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, under its ‘Margdarshika,’ a standard operating procedure aimed at improving the performance of cooperative societies. These societies play a crucial role in supporting the rural economy, and their efficient operation is key to local development.
During the discussions, Ms. Yongda directed officials from implementing departments to collaborate closely and meet their targets within defined timelines. She emphasized the need for workshops and awareness camps in remote areas to ensure that underutilized Multi-Purpose Cooperative Societies (MPCSs) are mobilized effectively.
She also reviewed the current status of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and encouraged the Fisheries Department to develop smart marketing strategies to support local farmers.
Ms. Laden Gensapa provided an overview of the operational and non-operational cooperative societies within the district, highlighting the challenges they face. She outlined the new action plans under the Ministry’s SOPs, aimed at improving the reach and performance of these societies. The meeting also included suggestions from newly inducted members to increase employment opportunities through cooperative expansion.
The Fisheries Department’s Deputy Director informed attendees of the potential for growth in identified areas where cooperative schemes are being promoted.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. K.T. Bhutia, Member Secretary of the JWC.