The National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) organized a thought-provoking webinar on the theme “Cooperatives – Journeying from Sustainability to Regeneration”, drawing active participation from cooperative leaders, youth, and stakeholders across the country.
In his opening address, Ashish Dwivedi, Executive Director, NCUI, emphasized that cooperatives are not just economic enterprises but transformative social institutions rooted in democratic values, equity, and solidarity.
He praised grassroots cooperatives for tackling complex challenges like climate change, waste management, and rural livelihoods through innovative and inclusive approaches.
The webinar featured impactful presentations by Amogh Bhongale of SWaCH Pune Seva Sahakari Sanstha Ltd., India’s first waste-picker-led cooperative. He showcased how the cooperative has empowered informal workers, promoted inclusive waste management, and turned plastic waste into sustainable livelihoods.
Pravin Bhai Parmar, representing the Dhundi Solar Power Producers’ Cooperative in Gujarat, presented a unique farmer-owned solar model where surplus solar energy is sold to the grid, reducing diesel dependency and boosting rural incomes.
Over 75 participants engaged in lively discussions, with many expressing interest in replicating these models in their regions.
