Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah informed Parliament that 8,710 new Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) have been formed against the national target of 32,752 for 2024–25 and 2025–26, achieving nearly 27% of the goal in the first phase of the drive.
Sharing state-wise data, Shah said Odisha leads the country with 1,543 new PACS, followed by Rajasthan (1,387) and Uttar Pradesh (1,099). Madhya Pradesh (663), Uttarakhand (621), Gujarat (525), Assam (469) and Chhattisgarh (469) are also among the key contributors.
In Gujarat alone, 525 PACS have been established, with Junagadh topping the state at 212 societies, followed by Kheda (38), Vadodara (37) and Mahisagar (31). Several districts have additional PACS under process.
Highlighting reforms, Shah said PACS have been transformed under new Model Bye-laws to undertake over 25 diversified activities. Beyond credit, they now operate as PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras, seed distribution centres under “Bharat Beej,” Custom Hiring Centres, dairy and fisheries hubs, and even Common Service Centres delivering 300+ e-services. Many are also running Janaushadhi Kendras, fuel outlets and water supply operations, positioning PACS as rural economic powerhouses.