news details |
|
|
| Varanasi National workshop focuses on Cooperative Banking Diversification | | | Early Times Report
NEW DELHI, Apr 10: The 7th National Review Conference organised on April 9th and 10th, 2026 by the Ministry of Cooperation in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh focused on deepening sectoral reforms, strengthening institutional capacity and accelerating implementation across key cooperative verticals, including banking, dairy, financing ecosystems and emerging cooperative models. The deliberations reflected a shift towards execution, with emphasis on resolving operational bottlenecks and ensuring that policy initiatives translate into measurable outcomes on the ground.
Addressing the concluding session of this two day National review conference, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani emphasised that the next phase of reforms will be driven by effective execution at the field level, supported by improved coordination among stakeholders and timely utilisation of resources. He noted that while substantial progress has been made, there is a need to move beyond periodic reviews and ensure that implementation keeps pace with policy intent, particularly in areas where progress has been uneven. He further underlined that faster decision-making and stronger convergence between institutions will be essential to achieving tangible and sustained outcomes.
On PACS Computerisation and expansion, Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani highlighted the importance of timely completion of ongoing phases and sustained momentum for future expansion under the broader PACS strengthening initiatives. He also emphasised the need for robust implementation mechanisms and continuous monitoring to ensure quality outcomes. He called for greater accountability and performance-based evaluation of implementation partners, along with strengthening institutional support systems to facilitate smooth rollout of initiatives. He further emphasised the importance of continuous training and capacity building, noting that systems must remain effective and sustainable beyond the lifecycle of specific schemes.
Reviewing progress under the grain storage initiative in the cooperative sector, the Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation highlighted the need for time-bound implementation, effective coordination among agencies and innovative approaches to address operational challenges, including facilitation of land availability and streamlined processes. Similarly, on institutional strengthening, he emphasised the need to expand cooperative coverage across sectors such as dairy and fisheries, supported by capacity building, identification of gaps and targeted interventions. He also encouraged States to rationalise and strengthen cooperative structures, including addressing non-functional entities where required.
The Secretary further stressed the importance of business diversification of PACS, encouraging them to evolve into multi-service centres at the village level by adopting additional income-generating activities and expanding service offerings.
On cooperative banking, Dr. Bhutani highlighted the need for strengthening cyber security frameworks, adopting secure digital platforms and enhancing operational efficiency, to ensure that cooperative banks remain resilient and responsive to emerging financial needs. Highlighting the role of the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), he emphasised its growing importance in providing timely and flexible financing support across sectors, and indicated continued efforts to further strengthen financing avenues for cooperative institutions. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
