Lakhan Lal Sahu, President of Chattisgarh Sahkari Sangh may soon become an icon of cooperative movement in India. He conceived an idea of awarding Padam Shree to farmers; put it in the board meeting of NCUI which in turn forwarded it to the government of India. Government liked the idea and has asked NCUI to short list the names of farmers.
Padam Shree for farmers! Indeed a victory for otherwise controversy clouded cooperative movement in India.
On the letter of NCUI addressed to Agriculture Minister, the Ministry has written on August 17 undersigned by Surendra Sehgal, Dy Director (Cooperation). “ I am directed to request that specific names with detailed biodata of eminent persons who have rendered exceptional and distinguished service in the field of agriculture and cooperation may be furnished to this department, along with their contribution to take up the matter with appropriate Ministry for consideration of their names for bestowing Padam Awards”.
When Indiancooperative.com contacted Mr Sahu to find out the root of this idea, he said that it was his long association with the farmers on the field which motivated him to try to give them credit for their due.
Mr Sahu further added that green revolution or self dependency in food were achieved due to the hard work of farmers. If people connected with art or culture, sports or film can be awarded Padma awards why not the farmers, added a jubilant Sahu.
Indian cooperative had reported the first move of Lakhan Lal Sahu when he initiated a debate on the subject in the meeting of Governing Council of NCUI.
Indian cooperative again warns Mr Sahu that the selection of candidates should be genuine to have respect for the award. Only Natha of Peepli Live should get the award not those who play politics on the tragedies of Natha.
