The Centre has accelerated expansion of the cooperative sector with 33,853 new multipurpose PACS, dairy and fisheries cooperatives registered across India as of February 2026, according to data shared by Amit Shah in Parliament.
The initiative aims to ensure that every village and panchayat is covered by a cooperative institution within five years. Additionally, over 21,000 existing dairy and fisheries cooperatives have been strengthened to improve services and operational efficiency.
Supported by institutions like National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, National Dairy Development Board and National Fisheries Development Board, the plan promotes multipurpose PACS capable of undertaking over 25 activities.
These cooperatives will act as rural service hubs, boosting farmer access to inputs, services, and markets while enhancing income and sustainability.