Cooperative movement played an important role
Bhopal: The main reason behind India’s success in cushioning effects of global recession is the country’s rural economy. Cooperative movement has played an important role in boosting rural economy after country’s independence. These views were expressed by speakers on the subject “Inclusive development through cooperatives” organised by MARKFED at its office here today. The programme was held in the presence of Managing Director Shri Ashok Varnwal.
Shri Varnwal said that cooperative movement’s main slogan “Bin Sahkar Naheen Uddhar” is an expression of all-round development of society. He said that 97 percent families in the country are connected with cooperative movement. Cooperative movement’s strength can be gauged by this fact. Referring to State Marketing Federation (MARKFED) activities, Shri Varnwal informed that MARKFED’s participation is about 85 to 90 percent in distribution of fertiliser in the state’s remote areas. Cooperative societies have made forays into agriculture sector. He informed that in year 2007-08, MARKFED’s participation used to be 13.35 lakh metric tonnes out of 28.92 lakh metric tonnes of fertiliser. This participation has been increased to 24.23 lakh metric tonnes out of 44.19 lakh metric tonnes in year 2011-12. MARKFED is distributing 55 percent of total fertiliser. MARKFED also procured 27.74 lakh metric tonnes of wheat on support price in year 2012-13. This year, 7.66 metric tonnes of paddy is being procured in 32 districts of the state. Turnover of MARKFED has also increased. It was Rs. 1,402 crore in year 2008-09 and has been increased to Rs. 4,600 crore in 2011-12.
Throwing light on importance of cooperative movement, KRIBHCO State Manager Shri D.P. Joel said that 54 percent handlooms, 40 percent sugar, 36 percent fertiliser and 33 wheat are being distributed through cooperative sector in the country. He emphasised the need to strengthen cooperative societies further. IFFCO State Marketing Manager Shri Anil Dhingra informed that cooperative movement has made a number of states pioneer states of the country. He cited example of ‘Amul’ of Gujarat. MARKFED Chief General Manager Shri R.K. Chaukse and State Cooperative Federation representative Shri Joshi also addressed the programme.
