SHILLONG, Aug 14: Governor CH Vijayashankar highlighted the crucial role of co-operative societies in Meghalaya’s development journey, noting their contributions even before the state attained full statehood.
He was speaking at the inauguration of a co-operative exhibition held for the first time at Raj Bhavan on Thursday.
“From just around 950 societies in the early 1970s, Meghalaya today boasts over 3,300 co-operative societies with nearly three lakh members,” the Governor said, emphasising the expanding footprint of the co-operative sector in the state.
The exhibition featured stalls from a wide range of co-operative institutions, showcasing locally-produced goods and innovative initiatives. Some products proved so popular they were sold out by the end of the event. The Governor encouraged stallholders to restock for public viewing on August 15 and hinted at the possibility of making the exhibition an annual event.
Meanwhile, Vijayashankar underscored the global relevance of the co-operative movement, noting that the United Nations has declared 2025 as the “International Year of Co-operatives”.
He stated that co-operatives will be instrumental in realizing the national goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.
Governor praised various state-backed initiatives like the Piggery Mission, Milk Mission, and tourism-based co-operatives that are helping strengthen the grassroots economy and creating sustainable livelihoods in Meghalaya.
Describing co-operatives as the backbone of rural progress, he lauded the Meghalaya Co-operative Apex Bank (MCAB) for its role in financing local entrepreneurs and supporting government-led projects. He called for greater collaboration among stakeholders to build resilient and self-reliant communities.
Reflecting on the origins of the co-operative movement, Governor Vijayashankar said its mission has always been to empower farmers, workers, and especially women entrepreneurs—offering them not only economic opportunities but also financial literacy.
He acknowledged the central government’s increasing focus on the sector, especially with the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Cooperation under the leadership of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. This move, he said, signals a strong policy commitment to strengthening co-operatives nationwide.
During the event, the Governor felicitated leaders of prominent co-operative institutions, including the chairpersons of MCAB, MECOFED, MAGHALOOM, and the Mei Ramew State Agro Ecology Co-operative Society Ltd, as well as the Assistant General Manager of MBMA. He took time to visit various stalls, interacting with society members and learning about their ventures.
In his closing remarks, Governor expressed gratitude to all contributors and stakeholders for their dedication to strengthening the co-operative ecosystem.
“Cooperation, resource-sharing, and community support are the keys to building a more resilient and prosperous future,” he stated.
