In a significant development, the Lok Sabha successfully passed the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (Amendment) Bill, aimed at bolstering cooperative entities by fostering transparency and introducing a system of regular elections. The bill received approval from the Lok Sabha through a voice vote amidst a brief discussion involving only three members. Leading the bill's presentation, the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, expressed his optimism, stating, "With the passage of this bill, a new chapter will commence in the cooperative movement of our nation."
A crucial aspect of the bill is the endorsement by the Union Cabinet, which envisions elevating transparency, accountability, and profitability within multi-state cooperative societies.
Minister Amit Shah further elaborated on the government's decision to establish three new multi-state societies, designed to fortify cooperatives. The first society will serve as a platform to export farmers' produce, while the second society will collaborate with small farmers in seed production. Remarkably, even farmers with just one acre of land will have the opportunity to participate in seed production. As for the third society, it aims to ensure fair prices for farmers' organic products, both within the country and across international markets.
A notable provision in the bill empowers the Election Authority to implement electoral reforms, ensuring fair and unbiased elections. This authority will operate with the same level of authority as the Election Commission, free from government interference.
Moreover, the bill addresses the issue of vacancies on the board by allowing elections to be held again for the vacant positions if one-third of such vacancies arise. The bill also outlines provisions for maintaining discipline during board meetings and ensuring the smooth functioning of cooperative societies. Board members, including the chairman, vice-chairman, and committee members, will be obligated to convene board meetings within three months. Additionally, the bill emphasizes giving majority power to equity shareholders to enhance governance transparency within cooperative societies.
Recognizing the significance of representation, the bill mandates the reservation of one seat for Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe members and one seat for women in the committees. This measure aims to increase the involvement and influence of these sections within cooperative societies.
Minister Amit Shah underscored that failure to comply with constitutional requirements may result in the disqualification of board members. Furthermore, the bill prohibits granting jobs to individuals with blood relations or distant relations during the employee recruitment process. It also incorporates the Right to Information as an integral part of the legislation.
In a progressive move, the Union government plans to establish a cooperative university to promote cooperative education in the future. Additionally, the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, will soon initiate the National Cooperative Database. Minister Shah revealed that the country had lacked a national cooperative policy from 2003 to 2020. However, before Diwali, the new national cooperative policy will be formulated, outlining the cooperative roadmap for the next 25 years.
The cooperative movement in India, which boasts a history of about 115 years, has contributed significantly to the nation's development by establishing vital enterprises like Amul, Kribhco, and IFFCO, providing employment to millions.
Highlighting the importance of this bill, Minister Shah lamented the lack of attention paid to cooperatives over the last 75 years, with minimal discussions in the country's parliament at the national or state level. However, with the Ministry of Cooperation's formation, he expressed confidence that the cooperative sector will once again play a vital role in driving the country's progress in the next 25 years.
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