Contribution of Cooperatives to National Development is Immeasurable – President Draupadi Murmu

Kolhapur, Sept 2: President Draupadi Murmu emphasized that while private industry and trade have played a crucial role in the country’s economic development, the contribution of cooperative societies has been equally unparalleled. She made these remarks during the inauguration of the Sri Varana Women’s Cooperative Industry Group’s Golden Jubilee and Varana University at Warnanagar.

The event was attended by Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Guardian Minister Hasan Mushrif, Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, Union Minister of State for Youth and Sports Raksha Khadse, MP Dhananjay Mahadik, MP Darishsheel Mane, MLA Dr. Vinay Kore, Director of Warna Bank Nipun Kore, Director of Savitri Mahila Cooperative Society Shubalakshmi Kore, and other dignitaries.

President Draupadi Murmu noted that cooperatives play a significant role in poverty alleviation, food security, and the management of natural resources. Speaking at the important event organized by the Warana Group, she expressed her admiration for the women who have contributed to the overall development of the Warana industry. She emphasized that in cooperative societies, the interests of members should be paramount and warned that cooperatives must not become instruments of personal gain, as this would defeat their very purpose. She further asserted that true cooperation should prevail, free from personal interest.

The President highlighted that there are over eight and a half lakh cooperative societies functioning in the country, although many face challenges such as lack of capital, resources, and management. She urged that by involving youth in cooperatives and integrating technology into governance and management, these institutions could be revitalized. She also called on cooperative societies to venture into new fields like organic farming, storage capacity, and eco-tourism, stating that cooperation will bring greater prosperity to the country in the future.

To strengthen the cooperative movement, the Ministry of Cooperatives was established in 2021. The President noted that this year’s budget includes a proposal to introduce a national cooperative policy for the well-organized and comprehensive development of the cooperative sector. Various schemes are being implemented to provide financial, technical, and training-related assistance to cooperatives, and she encouraged all organizations to take full advantage of these opportunities.

President’s Appeal to the Audience:

• Recognize the importance of education and strive to provide the best education for your children. Good and moral education will bring positive changes in life.
• Continue learning and adopting new technologies, which will not only make life more convenient but also make you aware of potential misuse.
• Prioritize environmental protection in your daily life, as small efforts can make a significant difference in saving Mother Earth and her inhabitants.
• Assist those who are weaker than you whenever possible, and work together to uplift them.
• Always be ready to contribute to the country’s development. Our individual and collective efforts will help India achieve global recognition.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to Advocate for Padma Award for Mr. Tatyasaheb Kore

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized that development is incomplete without the active participation of women. He noted that a revolution through cooperation is evident in Warnanagar and assured that the government will advocate for the Padma Award for Sahkar Maharshi Tatyasaheb Kore, acknowledging his significant contributions.

The Varana Group includes a Sugar Factory, Dairy, Education Board, Power Generation Institute, Cooperative Bank, Women’s Bank, Agricultural Training Institute, Cooperative Credit Society, Consumer Movement, Women’s Industrial Cooperative Movement, Warna Bazar, and more. The group’s impact across various sectors is remarkable, with a turnover of Rs. 3,000 crores. Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis highlighted that the dream of a developed India cannot be realized without women at the center of the economy. He further mentioned that both central and state governments are supporting women’s empowerment through initiatives like the Lakhpati Yojana, Lek Ladki Yojana, Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, free education, and free ST travel.