The Ministry of Cooperation has stated that no legal or regulatory gaps have been identified in State or UT Cooperative Acts that would hinder the objectives of the National Cooperative Policy 2025. Instead, the Ministry is supporting States and UTs in integrating their databases with the National Cooperative Database (NCD), offering technical assistance and standardized digital tools.
A common API framework was issued in May 2025, followed by push APIs in September, enabling real-time data flow from State systems to the NCD. Rajasthan has already completed full integration, while others are required to develop pull APIs and finish RCS computerization for seamless two-way synchronization of cooperative records.
A key priority of the policy is expanding participation of women, youth, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other vulnerable groups. The Multi-State Cooperative Societies Amendment Act and Rules of 2023 have strengthened transparency and accountability while mandating reserved seats, two for women and one for SC/ST, on the boards of multi-state cooperatives. PACS membership norms have also been broadened, with 32 States and UTs aligning their bye-laws to ensure wider representation.
To further promote inclusion, the National Cooperative Development Corporation has scaled up concessional financing through schemes like Nandini Sahakar, Swayam Shakti Sahakar, Ayushman Sahakar and Yuva Sahakar. In 2024–25 alone, Rs 1,355.61 crore was extended to women-led cooperatives, while cumulative support to women’s cooperatives has reached Rs 7,781.97 crore.
Dedicated assistance to SC and ST cooperatives continues to rise, alongside targeted sectoral schemes that strengthen livelihoods in fisheries, livestock, handloom, sericulture and labour, reinforcing the policy’s commitment to inclusive and modernized cooperative growth.
