Odisha Cabinet Greenlights State Cooperation Policy 2026 to Revitalize Cooperative Ecosystem
In a significant move aimed at overhauling the cooperative landscape, the Odisha state cabinet on Saturday gave its formal approval to the State Cooperation Policy-2026. This strategic policy is designed to synchronize Odisha's cooperative framework with the National Cooperation Policy, which was officially notified by the central government in July 2025.
Policy Aims to Foster a Member-Centric and Efficient Cooperative Sector
Briefing the media after the cabinet meeting, Chief Secretary Anu Garg elaborated on the core vision driving this policy. The primary focus is on leveraging cutting-edge technology and implementing comprehensive institutional reforms to transform the cooperative sector into a vibrant, efficient, and member-centric ecosystem. This initiative is firmly aligned with Odisha's broader vision of achieving inclusive and sustainable growth across the state.
Comprehensive Coverage of Cooperative Institutions
The newly approved policy seeks to strengthen a diverse array of cooperative institutions operating within Odisha. This extensive coverage includes:
- Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS)
- Cooperative banks and financial institutions
- Marketing and processing societies
- Dairy cooperatives
- Tribal cooperatives
- Handloom cooperatives
- Fisheries cooperatives
- Housing cooperatives
The overarching objective is to significantly improve service delivery and enhance last-mile outreach, ensuring that the benefits of cooperative activities permeate to the grassroots level.
Key Objectives and Strategic Pillars of the Policy
The State Cooperation Policy-2026 is built upon a foundation of several critical objectives designed to ensure sustainable development. These include:
- Providing a stable and supportive legal, regulatory, and financial framework to foster the sustainable growth of cooperatives.
- Modernizing and professionalizing the functioning of cooperatives to guarantee greater transparency and accountability in their operations.
- Strengthening Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) by transforming them into multi-service centres that cater to diverse community needs.
- Enhancing active member participation and promoting broader financial inclusion among cooperative members.
- Promoting value addition, agricultural processing, improved storage facilities, and robust market linkages to boost the economic viability of cooperative ventures.
To achieve these objectives, the policy is anchored on seven strategic pillars that will guide its implementation:
- Digital Transformation: Integrating technology to streamline operations and improve accessibility.
- Diversification of Cooperative Activities: Expanding the scope of services offered by cooperatives.
- Member Empowerment: Ensuring members have a greater say in cooperative governance.
- Financial Strengthening: Bolstering the economic resilience of cooperative institutions.
- Professional Management: Introducing skilled management practices.
- Governance Reforms: Implementing robust governance structures.
- Enhanced State Support: Providing increased backing from the state government.
Expected Impact and Long-Term Vision
The Odisha government anticipates that this comprehensive policy will serve as a catalyst for boosting village-level economic activity throughout the state. It is expected to improve access to essential credit and insurance services for rural and semi-urban populations while simultaneously strengthening cooperative institutions across all districts.
The State Cooperation Policy-2026 is slated to remain operational until the year 2036, ensuring a long-term, consistent approach to cooperative sector development. This timeline strategically aligns with Odisha's ambitious roadmap for Viksit Odisha 2036 and dovetails with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, positioning the cooperative movement as a key driver in the state's journey towards comprehensive development and prosperity.
