All India Co-operative Week celebration kicks off
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, November 14 2025:
The 72nd All India Cooperative Week Celebration, 2025 was inaugurated on Friday at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound, Imphal, under the theme "Cooperatives as Vehicles for Atmanirbhar Bharat", with a special focus on "Promoting Digitalization to Enhance Operational Efficiency, Accountability and Transparency" .
The event was jointly organised by the Department of Cooperation, Manipur and Manipur State Cooperative Union, Lamphelpat.
The inaugural function was graced by dignitaries, including Dr Shailesh Kumar Chourasia, Commissioner (Cooperation), Manipur; Waikhom Ibohal Singh, Registrar, Co-operative Societies, Manipur; L Tompishak Singh, President, Manipur State Co-operative Union; Dr Khundrakpam B Ramanando, Director, ICM, Imphal; Sh Hemanta Singh, Member, Managing Body, Manipur State Co-operative Union; and Kh Tomba Singh, retired DRCS, Department of Cooperation.
The celebration began with the hoisting of the Co-operative Flag by Dr Shailesh Kumar.
In his address, Dr Shailesh Kumar emphasized that the success of the cooperative movement depends on the efficiency of the entire system, which includes every cooperative society and each individual involved, not just the Department of Cooperation or the Registrar's office.
He highlighted that a strong structure is essential for effective functioning and that the performance of apex societies directly influences the outcomes of the societies under them.
Acknowledging existing challenges in Manipur's cooperative sector, he pointed out the issues during the ongoing computerization process, particularly the lack of active participation from members.
He also stressed that many societies are not functioning as intended because only a small fraction of their registered members participate in essential activities.
He underscored the vast potential of the cooperative movement in Manipur especially in sectors like handloom, handicrafts, agriculture, and other local industries which can generate employment and reduce the need for youth to migrate outside the State.
Regarding scheme implementation such as the computerization of PACS, he stressed the importance of thoroughly understanding the framework, norms, and purpose behind any scheme.
He urged societies to identify gaps and bottlenecks honestly, aS acknowledging problems is the first step toward improvement.
He noted the Government of India's strong support for the cooperative movement and encouraged the societies to study available schemes and proactively seek benefits rather than waiting passively.
Dr Shailesh Kumar concluded with confidence that, through collective effort and close coordination with the department and the Registrar's office, Manipur's cooperative sector can achieve excellence.
The function was also attended by the former Director of ICM and officials and staff of the Department of Cooperation.
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