Cooperative sector should work on secular principles: Minister K N Rajanna

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, November 17, 2024: Minister for Cooperation K N Rajanna emphasized the importance of secular principles in the cooperative sector, urging it to operate independently of political influences. Speaking at the State-level 71st All India Cooperative Week celebrations held in Mangaluru, he highlighted the sector’s transformative potential, especially for rural communities.

The event, organized by the Karnataka State Cooperative Federation, Cooperative Marketing Federation, South Canara District Central Cooperative (SCDCC) Bank, and other regional cooperatives, focused on strengthening the cooperative movement. Minister Rajanna noted that the movement becomes meaningful when even the most marginalized rural residents reap its benefits.

He credited late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for laying the foundation for the cooperative movement through the five-year plans and praised the current Union government for establishing a dedicated Cooperation Department under Minister Amit Shah. This department, he said, has brought uniformity to cooperative operations across India, facilitated IT-enabled services, and boosted the movement’s efficiency.

Calling for greater participation from youth, Rajanna lauded rural communities for their active engagement in the cooperative sector, which has enhanced economic opportunities.

Empowering Women and Transforming Rural Lives
Karnataka Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader highlighted the sector’s role in economically empowering women and boosting their self-esteem. “The cooperative movement has brought revolutionary changes to rural life,” he said.

Dakshina Kannada district in-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao presented cooperative awards and praised the sector’s significant impact on agriculture, trade, and commerce. He noted its ability to foster collective growth without jealousy or ill will.

Calls for Increased Support
Federation President and MLA G.T. Deve Gowda expressed concern over the reduction in loans from NABARD to cooperative societies. He urged the Central government and NABARD to extend more support to the sector, citing its critical role in rural and economic development.

The event was graced by M.N. Rajendra Kumar, President of Karnataka State Cooperative Marketing Federation and SCDCC Bank, along with other dignitaries, including MLAs Y. Bharath Shetty and Yashpal Suvarna, Mangaluru Mayor Manoj Kumar and DKMUL President K.P. Sucharita Shetty.

Awards and Celebrations
The prestigious Sahakara Manikya Awards were presented to three cooperatives from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, while several others were recognized for their exceptional performance. A colorful cooperative rally (jatha) was held from the SCDCC Bank headquarters to Karavali Grounds, adding vibrancy to the celebrations.