At a press conference jointly held by the Cooperation Ministry and IFFCO at the Media Centre in Delhi, the Cooperation Secretary announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025 during the ICA Global Cooperative Conference. This momentous event represents a significant milestone for the cooperative movement in India.
The historic event, organized by IFFCO Ltd. in collaboration with the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) and the Union Ministry of Cooperation, will take place from November 25 to 30, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, ITPO, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
For the first time in its 130-year history, the ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference will be hosted in India, showcasing the nation’s growing prominence in the global cooperative sector.
The event will also welcome international dignitaries, including Bhutan’s Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay and Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica.
Union Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah will inaugurate the conference and chair its session on November 25. A commemorative stamp dedicated to the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 will also be unveiled during the event.
The conference’s theme, “Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All,” aligns with India’s national vision, “Sahkar se Samriddhi,” highlighting the transformative power of cooperation in fostering prosperity. Subthemes such as enabling policies, fostering purposeful leadership, and reaffirming cooperative identity will guide discussions on shaping a prosperous future.
Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation, emphasized that under the leadership of Amit Shah, the Indian cooperative movement has reached new heights. Initiatives such as PACS computerization and the formation of cooperatives in emerging sectors have significantly contributed to the national GDP, positioning India as a global leader in cooperative initiatives.
Dr. U.S. Awasthi, Managing Director of IFFCO Ltd., expressed pride in hosting this landmark event, which will include the prestigious Rochdale Pioneers Award Ceremony, honoring exemplary contributions to the cooperative movement. Additionally, a “Haat” exhibition showcasing Indian cooperatives’ products and services will feature a thematic Indian village setting.
“The conference offers a unique opportunity for international delegates to engage in meaningful exchanges, reaffirming the vital role of cooperatives in fostering inclusive and sustainable prosperity,” concluded Dr. Awasthi.
Reacting to the Prime Minister’s confirmation, IFFCO Chairman said to Indian Cooperative, “The Hon’ble PM’s mere presence electrifies the gathering. It is only fitting that the Prime Minister of a country with one of the strongest cooperative movements inaugurates this global event.”
