Addressing the golden jubilee celebration of the Shri Warana Women Cooperative Group at Warananagar, Kolhapur, Maharashtra on Monday, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the pivotal role cooperatives play in harnessing the inherent strengths of society.
She emphasized that the cooperative movement embodies the principles of justice, unity, and fraternity as envisioned in the Indian Constitution, and it serves as a platform where people from diverse classes and ideologies come together, benefiting from social diversity.
The President pointed out that cooperatives have been instrumental in India’s economic development, with household names like Amul and Lijjat Papad standing as testaments to their success. Particularly in the dairy sector, she acknowledged the significant contributions of cooperative groups, which have helped India become the world’s largest milk producer. Beyond dairy, cooperatives are also vital in sectors like fertilizers, cotton, handlooms, housing, edible oils, and sugar.
A crucial part of her speech focused on the role of cooperatives in women empowerment. The Shri Warana Women Cooperative Group, which was celebrating 50 years of service, exemplifies how women-centered cooperatives can uplift communities by providing economic opportunities and fostering a spirit of collective growth.
The President underscored that such cooperatives not only contribute to economic empowerment but also serve as platforms for women to enhance their skills, engage in leadership roles, and build confidence.
Cooperatives have also contributed significantly to poverty alleviation, food security, and the sustainable management of natural resources. However, President Murmu noted that in today’s rapidly changing world, cooperatives must evolve.
She stressed the need for these institutions to adopt modern technology and professional management practices to overcome challenges such as limited capital, governance issues, and low participation rates. She particularly highlighted the importance of engaging the youth in cooperatives, as they can bring technological innovation and fresh perspectives to governance and management.
In her remarks, President Murmu stressed that the success of any cooperative depends on its connection with the common people. Democratic governance and transparency are crucial, and the interests of cooperative members should always be prioritized. She warned against cooperatives becoming tools for personal gain, which would undermine their very purpose.
Addressing a largely female audience, the President encouraged them to prioritize education, embrace new technologies, and commit to environmental conservation. She called on them to support those in need and contribute to the country’s development, emphasizing that collective efforts are essential for India to achieve greater heights on the global stage.
In conclusion, President Murmu’s address at the golden jubilee celebration of the Shri Warana Women Cooperative Group highlighted the transformative power of cooperatives in fostering economic growth, empowering women, and building a more equitable society.
