GANGTOK: The Cooperation Department organised the State-level inauguration of the International Year of Cooperatives-2025 at the Conference Hall, Sahakari Bhawan, Cooperation Department, under the theme “Cooperatives Build a Better World.”
The event was attended by Arun Kumar Upreti, Minister for Rural Development and Cooperation Departments, as the chief guest. Other attendees included Dr Mangaljit Rai, Chairman SICUN, Gloria Namchu, Secretary Cooperation Department, officials from the Cooperation Department, GM NABARD, MD SIMFED, MD SISCO, and representatives of apex and primary cooperative societies.
The programme began with the hoisting of the Cooperative flag at the premises of the Cooperation Department.
In his address, the Minister spoke about the role of cooperatives in driving economic growth and empowering communities. He said cooperatives help people to share resources, share knowledge, and achieve progress together. He called for greater participation of women in cooperatives, noting that it strengthens economic resilience and benefits communities.
The Minister highlighted the need for cooperatives to foster innovation and create self-reliant, inclusive communities. He stated that cooperatives have a vital role in achieving sustainable development goals, improving prosperity, and building resilient societies. He urged all stakeholders to continue supporting cooperatives to address social and economic challenges through collective action.
Gloria Namchu provided an overview of the International Year of Cooperatives and shared the history of the cooperative movement. She explained that the movement in Sikkim began during the Chogyal era with the Sikkim Cooperative Societies Act of 1955 and the establishment of the Denzong Agricultural Cooperative Society Ltd. After Sikkim merged with India in 1975, the sector grew under the Sikkim State Cooperative Societies Act of 1978 and its rules in 1981. The number of cooperative societies increased from 29 in 1975 to 3,803 primary societies with 1,16,363 members today.
The chief guest also launched the Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) of SISCO Bank, which aims to improve financial access within the cooperative sector.
Earlier, Ms Jabi Thapa, Principal Registrar Cooperation Department, delivered the welcome address while the vote of thanks was proposed by Ms Pema Ongmu, Registrar Cooperative Societies-II.
- IPR Report
