Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah informed the Rajya Sabha that Odisha has a robust and growing cooperative ecosystem, with 8,172 registered cooperative societies, of which 7,595 are currently functional, according to the National Cooperative Database (NCD).
In a written reply, Shah highlighted that since its inception in July 2021, the Ministry of Cooperation has introduced a series of reforms aimed at strengthening farmer-based cooperatives across India, including Odisha.
These reforms include the notification of Model PACS Bye-laws, empowering Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) to undertake over 25 business activities. PACS can now also function as PM-Kisan Samridhi Kendras, Janaushadhi Kendras, and Common Service Centres, widening their service delivery capabilities.
Under the PACS Computerisation Project, the Centre has released Rs 18.07 crore to Odisha for FY 2025–26, enabling PACS to shift to a more digital and transparent system.
Shah further stated that the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) has disbursed Rs 4,67,455.66 crore nationwide, with Rs 3,345.98 crore allocated specifically for cooperative development in Odisha.
To enhance market access, the Centre is promoting FPOs and FFPOs through PACS while also strengthening the dairy sector under White Revolution 2.0, which aims to increase milk procurement by 50% over the next five years.
The Minister also provided an update on the World’s Largest Decentralized Grain Storage Plan, noting that 11 PACS in Odisha have already constructed godowns, work has started in 134 PACS, and 85 PACS have completed construction.
