In 2026, India’s cooperative movement is emerging with fresh momentum and new benchmarks in rural economic empowerment, driven by innovative societies that blend traditional values with modern entrepreneurial spirit.
One such example is the Kuthera Cooperative Agriculture Service Society Limited, Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh which is earning recognition for its transition from a traditional primary agricultural credit society (PACS) to a multi-service cooperative (MSC), setting a template for future cooperatives to follow.
Located in rural India, the Kuthera society has broadened its activities far beyond basic agricultural support to encompass diversified retail and community-centric services. After securing financial assistance under NABARD’s PACS-to-MSC scheme, the society has expanded its operations, opening multiple outlets that sell consumer electronics such as mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators and washing machines, meeting local demand that previously required long travel and higher costs.
This transformation illustrates a new model of cooperative success. While PACS traditionally focus on credit and agricultural inputs, Kuthera’s MSC approach demonstrates how cooperatives can evolve into hybrid institutions that stimulate socio-economic development, create employment opportunities, and offer vital goods and services under one umbrella.
By diversifying into consumer retail and addressing community needs, the society is fostering local resilience and reducing rural-urban migration.
Beyond commercial activities, Kuthera Cooperative has maintained a strong community focus. It has organized medical camps, training workshops for women, and educational support for top students, illustrating how cooperatives can contribute to social welfare and capacity building. These initiatives help knit stronger social fabrics in rural areas and empower community members to participate in collective progress.
The society’s journey also aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen cooperative institutions. The Ministry of Cooperation has been pushing reforms and support measures for PACS and other cooperative bodies, including updating model bylaws and rolling out digitization efforts to improve transparency and efficiency across the sector.
Overall, Kuthera’s story reflects how cooperatives are redefining rural empowerment in India by integrating innovation, inclusivity and diversified service delivery. As more cooperatives adopt such forward-looking models, the movement is poised to play a significant role in advancing sustainable livelihoods and community-led development across the country.
With supportive policies, access to technology and continued grassroots participation, cooperatives like Kuthera could chart a new chapter in India’s rural transformation, one that blends economic viability with social impact and ushers in the future of cooperative success.
