The Impressive TimesShimla (Himachal Pradesh), September 14, 2025:Union Minister of State for Cooperation, Krishan Pal Gurjar, on Sunday reviewed the progress of centrally sponsored cooperative schemes in Himachal Pradesh and highlighted that the cooperative movement will play a decisive role in achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.
Speaking after the review meeting at the Cooperation Department in Shimla, Gurjar stressed that the prosperity and self-reliance of farmers, the “food providers of the nation,” is only possible through strong and expanded cooperative structures.
“If India’s farmers have to become prosperous and self-reliant, then the development and expansion of cooperatives is absolutely essential,” Gurjar said.
The Union MoS praised Himachal Pradesh for its progress in the cooperative sector, particularly under Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri, who also holds the cooperation portfolio.
“Himachal is known across the country for its apples, hardworking people, and unique climate. I am happy that under Mukesh Agnihotri’s leadership, unprecedented work has been done in this sector,” Gurjar noted.
The Minister announced that three new central institutions—NCEL, NCUL, and PPSSL, along with the Sahkar Taxi initiative—will be expanded in Himachal. He also shared that the newly established Cooperative University’s courses would soon be introduced in the state.
“Himachal has already sent proposals. Issues regarding course fees will be resolved so that the cooperative sector gets skilled manpower. Training institutes are necessary, and if Himachal establishes them, it will get a trained workforce for cooperatives,” Gurjar said.
On issues raised by the state, Gurjar assured full support from the Centre.
“On behalf of the Government of India and my senior minister, Amit Shah ji, I assure you that all the problems flagged here will be resolved in time. Both Centre and the Himachal government have the same aim—to make our farmers prosperous and self-reliant,” he added.
Highlighting Himachal Pradesh’s prominence as the “fruit bowl of India”, Gurjar endorsed the state’s demand to expand storage facilities beyond food grains to include horticultural produce, especially apples.
“We have taken note of this demand, and work will be done on it. Yes, there are challenges, but both governments will work together to strengthen the cooperative sector,” he assured.
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