In a major move to strengthen the cooperative sector, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has set a target to bring 20-30 lakh people under the ambit of cooperative societies. With a total population of approximately 40 lakh, this initiative aims to improve the socio-economic condition of a majority of Tripura’s residents.
Addressing a program on the promotion and development of cooperatives at Rabindra Bhavan, CM Saha emphasized the urgent need to increase participation in the cooperative movement. Currently, only 9-10 lakh people are directly or indirectly involved in cooperative societies. By expanding membership, the state government aims to enhance financial inclusion, boost employment opportunities, and strengthen local economies.
Current Status of Cooperative Societies in Tripura
The cooperative movement in Tripura has played a vital role in the economic development of the state. However, despite the presence of cooperative societies in various sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and dairy, a substantial portion of the population remains uninvolved.
Key Figures:
- Total Population of Tripura: ~40 lakh
- Current Participants in Cooperative Societies: 9-10 lakh
- New Target Set by CM Manik Saha: 20-30 lakh
With this new goal, the government plans to increase membership by 2-3 times the current level, ensuring that a majority of the population benefits from cooperative initiatives.
How Expanding Cooperative Societies Will Benefit Tripura?
The expansion of cooperative societies will significantly impact multiple sectors in the state. Here’s how it will benefit Tripura’s economy and its people:
1. Boosting Rural Economy
Many cooperative societies in Tripura are linked to agriculture, fisheries, and dairy farming. By bringing more farmers and rural entrepreneurs under cooperatives, the government aims to increase their access to better resources, technology, and financial aid.
2. Employment Generation
With more people engaged in cooperative societies, employment opportunities will rise across sectors. Small and medium-scale industries, handicrafts, and self-help groups will get a major boost, reducing unemployment and underemployment.
3. Strengthening Financial Inclusion
Many people in rural Tripura still lack access to formal banking services. Cooperatives provide financial support, loans, and credit facilities, making it easier for small businesses and farmers to sustain their livelihood.
4. Women Empowerment
Cooperative societies play a key role in empowering women by providing them with income-generating opportunities. By increasing participation, the state can promote financial independence and entrepreneurship among women.
5. Enhancing Agricultural Productivity
Agriculture remains a crucial part of Tripura’s economy. Strengthening agricultural cooperatives will ensure better access to fertilizers, modern farming techniques, and irrigation facilities, increasing productivity and farmers’ incomes.
Government’s Action Plan to Achieve the Target
To achieve this ambitious goal, the state government plans to implement several key strategies:
1. Awareness and Promotion Campaigns
The government will launch statewide awareness programs to educate people about the benefits of cooperative societies and encourage participation.
2. Digitalization of Cooperatives
Efforts will be made to digitalize cooperative operations, making them more accessible and efficient. This includes online registration, digital payments, and transparent financial management.
3. Financial Support and Incentives
The government may introduce financial schemes, low-interest loans, and subsidies to attract new members and strengthen existing cooperatives.
4. Training and Skill Development
Special training programs will be conducted to help cooperative members develop necessary skills in agriculture, business management, and entrepreneurship.
5. Strengthening Regulatory Framework
A robust policy framework will be established to ensure the smooth functioning of cooperative societies and prevent fraud or mismanagement.
Challenges in Expanding Cooperative Societies
Despite the government’s strong push, certain challenges need to be addressed:
- Lack of Awareness: Many people, especially in rural areas, are unaware of the benefits of joining cooperative societies.
- Limited Infrastructure: Some cooperatives lack proper infrastructure, making it difficult for members to access resources.
- Financial Constraints: Many cooperatives struggle with financial stability and require government support.
- Administrative Delays: Bureaucratic red tape can slow down the process of setting up and expanding cooperative societies.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha’s vision to bring 20-30 lakh people under cooperative societies marks a transformative step for the state’s socio-economic development. By increasing participation in cooperatives, the government aims to create new job opportunities, strengthen the rural economy, and promote financial inclusion.
With proper implementation, this initiative has the potential to uplift a major portion of Tripura’s population, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for the state. As the government rolls out its action plan, the expansion of cooperative societies could set a new benchmark for economic progress in India’s northeastern region.
