In a significant recognition of Maharashtra’s thriving cooperative banking sector, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat visited the headquarters of Shikshak Sahakari Bank, where he praised its remarkable growth and performance.
The occasion marked the release of a new book, but it became a celebration of cooperative banking excellence. Ahead of the formal event, Dr. Bhagwat interacted with the bank’s leadership, taking a keen interest in the institution’s journey and current achievements.
He was warmly received by Former Vice President and Senior Director Anil Mule, Director Vivek Jugade, Advocate Vinayak Rajkarne, Director Ranjeev Shriramwar, and CEO Alpeshkumar Joshi, who welcomed him with a traditional shawl and bouquet.
Director Vivek Jugade, who also serves as General Secretary of Maharashtra Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party, briefed Dr. Bhagwat on the state of urban cooperative banks in Maharashtra, emphasizing their resilience and growing importance in the state’s financial landscape.
Citing recent Reserve Bank of India data, Jugade pointed out that Maharashtra’s cooperative banks are outperforming many peers across India, a testament to sound governance and customer trust.
The Shikshak Sahakari Bank, in particular, has set a new benchmark this year. The bank’s total business crossed Rs 1,950 crore, while its gross profit soared to Rs 18.5 crore.
In a milestone achievement, after a wait of 25 years, Shikshak Sahakari Bank will distribute dividends to its members for the very first time this year, a gesture that reflects the institution’s financial strength and commitment to its cooperative ethos.
Vivek Jugade credited this success to the collective efforts of the bank’s leadership team, including President Anil Sole, Vice President and MLA Praveen Datke, and all board members.
Impressed by the bank’s achievements, Dr. Bhagwat congratulated the entire board and staff. In a gesture of humility, he remarked, “I should be honouring you, rather than you honouring me,” and extended his blessings for the bank’s continued progress.
The event was also attended by prominent Sangh leader Ravindra Bokare, Sanjay Shirpurkar, Ramchandrao Devtare, Ashok Mendhe, and other dignitaries, who witnessed this inspiring moment of cooperative triumph.