The Ministry of Cooperation has launched a series of reforms to strengthen Multipurpose Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (MPACS) nationwide, especially in underserved regions. These efforts aim to ensure financial sustainability of cooperatives while enhancing credit access and input availability for small and marginal farmers, Union Minister Amit Shah informed the House.
Key measures include establishing 2 lakh new PACS, dairy, and fishery cooperatives through convergence of central schemes with support from NABARD, NDDB, NFDB, and state governments. The Rs 2,925.39 crore PACS computerization project will improve efficiency and transparency. The world’s largest decentralized grain storage initiative will prevent distress sales and enhance farmer incomes.
PACS are being upgraded as PMKSKs, CSCs, fuel outlets, and LPG distributors, expanding their economic functions. Additional initiatives include Kisan Credit Cards, FPO formation, MSP procurement via digital platforms, and localized seed production.
BBSSL has partnered with top research bodies to promote indigenous, affordable, high-quality seeds through PACS, countering private seed monopolies. These reforms aim to transform PACS into dynamic, inclusive engines of rural growth.