In a vibrant celebration of the International Day of Cooperatives, ESAF Swasraya Multi-State Agro Co-operative Society, in collaboration with the College of Co-operation, Banking and Management (CCBM), hosted a grand event at the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) Library Hall.
The celebration was themed around “Cooperatives Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World”, echoing the global cooperative movement’s commitment to building equitable societies.
The event was presided over by Dr. E. G. Ranjit Kumar, Registrar in-charge and Dean (Faculty of Basic Sciences & Humanities), who stressed the transformative power of cooperatives in rural development and economic equity.
Mrs. Saleena George, Chairperson of ESAF Swasraya, delivered the opening remarks, reflecting on the significant role cooperatives have played in India’s nation-building journey.
Christudas Karayil Victor, CEO of ESAF Co-operative, introduced the theme and underlined the relevance of cooperatives in addressing modern challenges such as inequality, climate change, and social fragmentation. He highlighted the UN’s declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives, with a renewed focus on sustainable development goals.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. C. Pitchai, Senior Professor at Gandhigram Rural Institute, Tamil Nadu, who emphasized the need to engage youth in the cooperative movement to ensure its long-term relevance and growth.
Dr. K. Paul Thomas, MD & CEO of ESAF Small Finance Bank Ltd., was felicitated for his contributions to ethical banking and for securing a Ph.D. from KUV. He shared his personal journey and inspired students to become change-makers through cooperative models.
Felicitations were also extended by Dr. Jacob Samuel, Vice Chairman of ESAF Swasraya, Dr. K. A. Sunandha, and Ms. Arunima A. R., President of the Students’ Union, CCBM.
The event began with a welcome address by Dr. Sreelakshmi C. C. and concluded with a vote of thanks by V. K. Jayarajan, Compliance & Co-operative Information Officer, ESAF.
The celebration also included interactive student sessions, making it an enriching experience for all attendees.
