Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar lauded the contribution of the cooperative movement to Maharashtra’s rural development while addressing the centenary celebrations of the Dattajirao Kadam Shirdwad Vikas Seva Society, established in 1926.
Speaking at the event, Pawar highlighted how cooperative institutions have transformed the socio-economic landscape of western Maharashtra, particularly in Kolhapur and Ichalkaranji. He noted that the region’s prosperity, strong agricultural base, and thriving sugar industry are rooted in the cooperative model nurtured over the last century.
Pawar credited generations of cooperative leaders for building institutions that empowered farmers, strengthened rural economies, and ensured access to financial and marketing support.
He recalled the contributions of visionary leaders such as Yashwantrao Chavan, Vasantdada Patil, Ratnappa Kumbhar, Kallappanna Awade, and others who played a key role in expanding the cooperative sector.
He also emphasized the role of cooperative banks, credit societies, and sugar factories in driving inclusive growth and creating opportunities for rural communities.
Praising Dattajirao Kadam’s contribution, Pawar said cooperative institutions continue to provide direction, strength, and dignity to farmers and grassroots workers, making them a cornerstone of Maharashtra’s development model.