Goa Cabinet Greenlights Comprehensive State Cooperative Policy 2026
The state cabinet of Goa has officially approved the Goa State Cooperative Policy, 2026, during its Wednesday session. This landmark policy is designed to provide a structured framework for revitalizing and strengthening the cooperative sector, which plays a pivotal role in the socioeconomic fabric of Goa.
Addressing Critical Challenges in the Cooperative Movement
The cabinet recognized that the cooperative sector faces several emerging challenges that necessitate a renewed strategic direction. These include governance deficits, financial stress, limited professional capacity, and an urgent need for digital transformation. The policy directly addresses these issues through a multi-pronged approach.
The approved policy is built on several core pillars:
- Governance and Regulatory Strengthening to ensure transparency and accountability.
- Financial Robustness to enhance the economic sustainability of cooperatives.
- Digitisation to modernize operations and improve accessibility.
- Professionalism and Capacity Building to develop skilled human resources within the sector.
- Sectoral Vibrancy to boost key areas like agriculture, credit, housing, fisheries, and dairy.
- Business Growth and Market Linkages to expand opportunities and integration.
- Innovation, Sustainability, and Future-Ready Initiatives to prepare for upcoming trends.
Aligning with National and State Visions
The Goa State Cooperative Policy, 2026, aligns with the broader national framework. The Centre had previously notified the National Cooperative Policy, 2025, which envisions professionally managed, economically sustainable, and future-ready cooperatives under the vision of "Sahkar-se-Samriddhi" and "Viksit Bharat @2047".
In harmony with this national directive and Goa's own objective of achieving "Swayampurna Goa 2037", the state government constituted a dedicated drafting committee. This committee was tasked with framing a comprehensive and tailored state policy to meet local needs while adhering to national goals.
Focus on Sustainability and Youth Engagement
A significant aspect of the new policy is its emphasis on sustainability and preparing for future frontiers. This includes the promotion of green energy and renewable initiatives, fostering youth-led cooperatives, and encouraging innovation-driven business models. These elements aim to make the cooperative sector resilient and relevant for coming generations.
Implementation Roadmap and Financial Clarifications
The policy includes a detailed five-year implementation roadmap spanning from 2026 to 2030, with specific year-wise milestones to ensure structured and measurable development. It is intended to serve as a guiding framework, providing clear strategic direction to all stakeholders in the cooperative sector.
The cabinet has clarified that the approval of the policy itself carries no immediate financial implications. Any future proposals involving statutory amendments, financial commitments, or inter-departmental approvals will be processed separately according to existing laws and procedures, following approval by the council of ministers. Such financial requirements will be presented to the competent authority with proper justification as needed.
Authorization for Rollout
To facilitate the policy's execution, the cabinet has authorized the Department of Cooperation to issue all necessary orders for the publication, dissemination, and phased implementation of the Goa State Cooperative Policy, 2026. This step ensures a coordinated and systematic approach to bringing the policy's benefits to the cooperative sector across the state.
