Raipur: In a significant step towards strengthening rural livelihoods and advancing the vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” (Prosperity through Cooperation), Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai virtually inaugurated 515 newly formed Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) from the Mantralaya, Mahanadi Bhawan in Nava Raipur.
The Chief Minister described the initiative as a historic milestone aimed at bringing essential agricultural services directly to farmers at the village level.
With this expansion, the total number of cooperative societies in the state has increased to 2,573, further strengthening the cooperative network across Chhattisgarh.
PACS to Function as Multi-Purpose Rural Service Centers
The newly launched PACS will operate as multi-purpose cooperative societies, ensuring that farmers can access key services such as fertilizers, seeds, and short-term agricultural credit within their own villages.
These societies will also simplify the paddy procurement process, allowing farmers to sell their produce at nearby centers without logistical difficulties.
The government aims to transform PACS into comprehensive rural service hubs that go beyond agriculture, supporting allied sectors and local development needs.
Digital Transformation: Computerization and Micro-ATM Services
As part of modernization efforts, 2,058 existing PACS have already been computerized to improve efficiency and transparency.
Additionally, micro-ATMs have been installed in these societies, enabling farmers to withdraw up to ₹20,000 directly at local centers. This move is expected to significantly improve rural financial inclusion and reduce dependence on distant banking facilities.
Strong Focus on Tribal and Remote Regions
Out of the 515 newly established PACS, 197 societies have been set up specifically in tribal and remote areas.
This targeted approach aims to ensure that farmers in underserved and geographically isolated regions also benefit from cooperative services, credit access, and agricultural support systems.
Expansion Beyond Agriculture: Dairy, Fisheries, and Public Services
The Chief Minister highlighted that PACS will not remain limited to agricultural inputs alone. In the coming phase, these societies will be integrated with dairy production, fisheries, and other allied rural economic activities.
In addition, Public Service Centers will be established within PACS, providing access to more than 25 government services at a single location, further improving governance delivery in rural areas.
Leadership Participation and Government Commitment
The virtual launch event witnessed participation from several senior leaders and officials, including Cooperative Minister Kedarnath Kashyap, Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam, Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Industry Minister Lakhanlal Dewangan, Education Minister Gajendra Yadav, Tourism Minister Rajesh Agrawal, and Minister for Skill Development and Employment Guru Khushwant Saheb.
Senior officials including Rahul Bhagat, C.R. Prasanna, K.N. Kande, and Kedarnath Gupta also attended the event virtually.
Around 2,500 representatives, farmers, and officials from various districts participated in the programme.
Government’s Vision: Strengthening Rural Prosperity Through Cooperation
Chief Minister Sai reiterated that the cooperative movement is central to improving farmers’ income and strengthening the rural economy.
He urged farmers to become active members of these societies to maximize benefits from credit facilities, agricultural inputs, and government services available at the local level.
The initiative is expected to play a crucial role in boosting agricultural productivity, enhancing rural banking access, and supporting allied activities such as dairy and fisheries across the state.
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