Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav emphasized the transformative power of cooperatives in creating self-reliant youth and uniting communities during the International Cooperative Day celebrations held at Samanvay Bhavan, Bhopal. The event was organized by the M.P. State Cooperative Federation and Apex Bank Training College.
Cooperatives Under PM Modi Bringing New Dimensions
CM Yadav highlighted the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah in redefining the role of cooperatives across India. He stated that under the new cooperative regime, sectors like milk production, industrial development, and rural employment are being given top priority.
“Cooperatives are more than financial institutions—they are instruments of social empowerment and economic inclusion,” Dr. Yadav said. “In 2025, the state is celebrating the Year of Employment and Industry, and cooperatives will be the backbone of this initiative.“
Transparent System, Faster Registrations
Chief Minister Yadav assured that a fully transparent process is now in place for registering new cooperative committees. “Registrations are now completed within 30 days, ensuring speed and trust in the system,” he added.
He also interacted with youth during the ‘Cooperative Youth Dialogue’, answering questions and encouraging them to explore self-employment through cooperatives. “Confidence, experience, and teamwork are the three pillars for success in cooperative ventures,” he told students.
Empowering Women Through Cooperative Safari
Dr. Yadav showcased the example of Sangeeta Solanki, a woman entrepreneur from the Madhai region of Satpura Tiger Reserve, who earns ₹14,000/month by operating a safari gypsy under a women-led cooperative. “This is an example of how women can become leaders in tourism and conservation through cooperation,” he said.
Historical Roots and Future Aspirations
Paying homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who initiated the cooperative milk revolution via Amul, the CM said the state is determined to lead in milk production. “From our current 9% contribution, we aim to reach 20% in India’s milk production, and cooperatives will be at the core of this growth.”
He also touched on judicial reforms, praising the new criminal laws under PM Modi for ensuring justice with open eyes—symbolizing transparency and clarity, values that resonate deeply with the cooperative spirit.
Cooperation Minister Calls for Cultural Shift
Vishwas Kailash Sarang, Minister for Cooperation, Sports, and Youth Welfare, said that cooperation is embedded in Indian culture. “It’s not just a model for income, but a way to unite the nation. By 2047, when India aims to become a developed country, the cooperative model will play a key role,” he noted.
Real-Time Dialogue With Youth
During the interactive session, students suggested integrating cooperative education into school curricula. Dr. Yadav welcomed the idea but encouraged self-motivated learning, saying, “Cooperation knows no barriers of age, income, or education. It is open to all.”
He also distributed sewing machine toolkits to 30 women trained under cooperative initiatives, symbolizing the government’s focus on women-led micro-enterprises.
