PANAJI
Goa on Thursday unveiled its first State Cooperative Policy, a move aimed at revitalising the sector and aligning it with national goals. Cooperation Minister Subhash Shirodkar launched the policy at a function in Porvorim, calling it a milestone for the State.
The Cabinet had cleared the framework in February. It sets out a five-year roadmap from 2026 to 2030, with annual milestones and the policy is aligned with the Centre’s “Sahkar se Samridhi” vision but adapted to Goa’s specific requirements.
Shirodkar said it would support agriculture, fisheries, horticulture, floriculture and even emerging areas such as information technology.
“This will play a vital role in building a self-reliant Goa and contributing to a developed India,” he said.
At the launch, agreements were signed with GCCI, GIPARD and the Biodiversity Board and nine online service modules for cooperative institutions were unveiled, marking a push towards digitisation.
The Minister said that digital transformation will improve efficiency and transparency in the cooperative sector.
Shirodkar claimed that when he took charge, the cooperative movement was sluggish. Many functions had been outsourced, and cooperative banks and credit societies were burdened with high non-performing assets.
"From January 2025, branch managers and loan-sanctioning units were made responsible for recovery," he said, adding that this measure has already reduced NPAs, with only Rs 65 lakh now outstanding across 105 accounts.
The new policy also recommends training for employees, financial assistance for societies, grievance redressal mechanisms and digitisation of services. Narendra Sawaikar, chairperson of the drafting committee, said stakeholder feedback will continue to shape the framework.
Shirodkar added that the government is reviewing the financial position of the Tirumala Tirupati Society. A decision on whether to renew its licence will be taken soon.
