Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has said that linking animal husbandry, agriculture and cooperative efforts is driving “prosperity through cooperation” and bringing greater economic benefits to rural communities across India.
Cooperation at the heart of rural prosperity
Addressing a cooperative conference on sustainable agriculture in Panchkula, Shah explained that decoupling agriculture and animal husbandry from cooperative structures limits their employment and income potential, but when integrated, these sectors not only employ millions but also make them prosperous.
He highlighted that nearly 70 % of the country’s population lives in rural areas and depends on farming and livestock for livelihood, emphasising that linking these sectors with cooperatives ensures profits flow directly to producers rather than intermediaries.
Showcasing cooperative success models
Shah cited the example of Gujarat’s Amul cooperative, noting how its structure distributes significantly higher returns to milk producers than what they would earn through market sales alone, illustrating the economic strength of collaboration.
Policy shifts support sustainable farming
Shah outlined that new agricultural policy focuses on sustainable practices such as scientific irrigation, reduced chemical use, natural farming methods, and soil health improvements, all aimed at increasing farmer incomes and reducing dependency on subsidies. He also noted that model bylaws for PACS have been prepared and multipurpose PACS certificates issued, alongside the creation of three national multi-state cooperative societies focused on exports, organic product marketing and seed distribution, laying a foundation for stronger farmer earnings.
Vision for cooperative expansion
Shah expressed confidence that the cooperative movement will expand, with the expectation of many more strong cooperative institutions emerging across the country to support farmers and rural producers.
