Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Cooperative sector is set to become stronger, with a new chapter being added to the history of the state’s cooperative movement. On September 25th, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will launch the mega cooperative membership drive, ‘Sambandha’, aimed at expanding the reach of the cooperative sector across the state.

Along with the launch of the mega membership drive, a new mobile application will also be introduced to make digital membership registration easier and more transparent. Through the ‘Sambandha’ membership campaign, the Cooperation Department aims to enrol at least one member from every rural household. 

‘Promotion of Sugarcane Production’ A State Sector Scheme will also be launched to boost sugarcane cultivation and support farmers. The scheme will focus on the catchment areas of cooperative sugar industries. Initially priority will be given to the revival and operationalisation of the Badamba Cooperative Sugar Mill and strengthening  the Asika Cooperative Sugar Mill. 

In addition, for the first time in the history of Odisha’s cooperative sector, farmer-members of Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) and Large Area Multipurpose Cooperative Societies (LAMPCS) will receive dividends.

To strengthen the rural economy and encourage dairy farmers new milk collection centres in PACS will be inaugurated virtually. In addition of these, new Krushi Seva Kendras, consumer centres and Jan Seva Kendras will also be inaugurated.  

To improve transparency and operational efficiency, PACS are being integrated into the National Level PACS Computerisation Software (NLPS). On Friday, this process will be kick started. 

As part of the State Government’s vision for strengthening agricultural infrastructure, Model Mandis’ foundation stones will be laid along with foundation stone be laid for  ‘World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan. The Chief Minister will also distribute appointment letters to newly selected Cooperative Inspectors and candidates for the Odisha State Warehousing Corporation (OSWC).