- Two-day workshop held in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, on 8-9 October 2026
- Secretary Ashish Kumar Bhutani wants accountability alongside autonomy for cooperative banks
- NCDC Act amendment opens financial assistance to non-cooperative promoter institutions
- States to be consulted on a common digital marketing platform for cooperative products
- Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel pledged full state support for cooperatives
The Ministry of Cooperation has begun its 9th National Review Workshop in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, under the theme of ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’. The two-day event runs on 8-9 October 2026.
The workshop reviews progress on major cooperative schemes. It also aims to share successful practices and set action plans for the next three months. Senior State officials, Registrars of Cooperative Societies and national cooperative bodies are taking part.
Tighter oversight of cooperative banks
Addressing the inaugural session, Secretary Ashish Kumar Bhutani stressed democratic governance, transparency and accountability. He said cooperative banks serve people who often struggle to get credit from commercial banks.
He said bank autonomy must come with accountability and effective supervision. He urged Registrars of Cooperative Societies across States to be more vigilant and proactive. Weak oversight, he warned, could hurt the credibility of the entire cooperative sector.
Bhutani said the Ministry is working with the Reserve Bank of India. The aim is to help cooperative banks raise resources and offer concessional credit to farmers.
New funding and digital plans
Bhutani said a recent amendment to the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) Act now allows aid to institutions that promote cooperatives but are not cooperatives themselves. He urged States to use this route.
A separate NCDC session has been scheduled to discuss financing and State needs. NABARD’s team will also take part in the deliberations.
The Ministry plans to build a common digital platform to market cooperative products. The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has offered support. The Ministry will consult States before moving ahead.
Focus on PACS and government procurement
Bhutani asked States to review their experience of government procurement through Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). He sought data on commissions earned, real gains, payment delays and financial viability.
He also called for linking PACS and tribal cooperatives with State and national federations. The aim is better market access and fair prices for members.
Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel assured full state support for cooperative development. He said the workshop would give fresh impetus to cooperation among States.
Sessions on day one covered multipurpose PACS, computerisation, the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan and business diversification. Thematic sessions also covered cooperative banking and the work of NCEL, NCOL and BBSSL.
