The National Cooperative Policy 2025 aims to revitalise and modernise the cooperative sector, creating a structured roadmap at the grassroots level. The policy aligns with the broader national goal of ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation) and supports the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 (Developed India 2047), according to an official statement.
The new policy is designed to make cooperative institutions more vibrant and relevant in today’s evolving economic landscape. It emphasises inclusivity, professional management, and capacity-building to prepare cooperatives for future challenges. A significant focus is placed on boosting employment and livelihood opportunities, particularly in rural areas.
The comprehensive policy was drafted by a 48-member national committee chaired by former Union Minister Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu. The committee included representatives from national and state cooperative federations, cooperative societies across various sectors, and officials from central and state government departments.
To ensure a participatory and inclusive process, the committee conducted 17 meetings and four regional workshops in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Gurugram, and Patna. Over 648 suggestions from stakeholders were reviewed and integrated into the final policy draft.
The previous National Cooperative Policy was introduced in 2002. Over the past two decades, the landscape of the cooperative sector has significantly changed due to globalisation and rapid technological progress, prompting the need for an updated framework.
