Amit Shah Inaugurates New Offices for Three Cooperatives, Aims to Boost Indian Agriculture and Farmer Incomes

Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on 13 March 2024, said that three new cooperative societies: (National Cooperative Organics Ltd) NCOL, (National Cooperative Exports Ltd) NCEL, and (Bhartiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Ltd) BBSSL will help farmers to boost their production and income. The opening ceremony of the new office building for three national-level multi-state cooperative societies was held at the World Trade Centre, Nauroji Nagar. During the event Shah highlighted the crucial role these societies will play in tackling challenges faced by farmers and boosting agricultural exports, with a particular focus on organic products.

During the event, Shah highlighted the importance of promoting organic and natural farming while discouraging the use of chemical fertilizers. He outlined plans to establish laboratories in every district within the next five years to certify organic farms and products, underscoring the government's commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

Highlighting the potential of organic farming, Shah expressed ambition to elevate India's organic exports from the current Rs 7,000 crore to an impressive Rs 70,000 crore. He noted the significant gap between the global organic market, valued at Rs 10 lakh crore, and India's current exports, indicating vast untapped opportunities in this sector.

Aligned with Prime Minister Modi's vision of "Sahakar se Samriddhi," Shah reiterated the government's commitment to uplifting farmers and enhancing their prosperity through cooperative initiatives. He emphasized that these societies will not only facilitate increased production of organic products but also ensure access to quality seeds for farmers nationwide.

Each cooperative society has distinct objectives tailored to address specific challenges within the agricultural sector. NCEL aims to promote exports from the cooperative sector, with key members including renowned organizations such as (Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd.) GCMMF and (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd) NAFED.

Cooperative societies at all levels interested in exports can join NCEL. NCEL supports members with procurement, storage, processing, marketing, branding, labeling, packaging, research, and market development. Backed by Indian government ministries like External Affairs and Commerce, NCEL operates nationwide.

NCOL, on the other hand, focuses on harnessing the potential of organic products and creating a robust ecosystem for organic farming.

BBSSL is dedicated to advancing both traditional and advanced seed research and production, with a focus on ensuring quality standards at par with global benchmarks. By reducing reliance on imported seeds and enhancing the production of quality seeds within India, BBSSL aims to boost agricultural productivity and farmers' incomes.

Central to the mission of these societies is the empowerment of farmers and the strengthening of cooperative systems. By procuring agricultural produce and seeds directly from farmers through Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), these societies aim to ensure fair returns for farmers and prevent leakages in the distribution process.

With a focus on promoting organic farming, advancing seed research, and empowering farmers through cooperative initiatives, these societies are ready to transform the landscape of Indian agriculture and contribute to the nation's economic growth.