Gandhinagar, Gujarat – The Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat, spoke at the “Cooperative Prosperity Conference” held at the Raj Bhavan. This event marked the celebration of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025. With the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Governor emphasised the vital role of cooperation and service in the advancement of society.
“The people of Gujarat have a long-standing spirit of cooperation,” Governor Devvrat stated. He noted that many farmers in Gujarat are adopting natural farming practices to protect the environment, land, air, water, and overall health. However, some farmers fear that shifting to natural farming might reduce their yields.
During the conference, Governor Devvrat pointed out that cooperation is not just a transaction but a feeling that can lead to substantial growth. He urged cooperative leaders to innovate and create jobs through cooperative efforts in agriculture, banking, and fisheries.
Acharya Devvrat highlighted the success of Amul Dairy as a prime example of how cooperation can lead to excellence. Starting from small villages, Amul has gained international recognition. The Governor encouraged all representatives in the cooperative sector to expand their operations and embrace natural farming techniques, which can lead to improved incomes for farmers and contribute positively to the environment.
The conference was also attended by Shankarbhai Chaudhary, the Speaker of the Gujarat Assembly, and Minister of Cooperation Jagdishbhai Vishwakarma. They toured exhibitions set up by various cooperative societies, engaging with participants to discuss their projects and innovations.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel echoed the Governor’s sentiments, stating, “Cooperation is not just a business; it is a feeling. By embracing this sentiment, we can celebrate the International Year of Cooperatives successfully.”
He mentioned that the celebrations are inspired by India’s cooperative movement, which aims to uplift villages and promote sustainable agriculture. Patel also praised the central government’s establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation, which aims to enhance cooperative frameworks across the country.
The Chief Minister elaborated on the concept of ‘Cooperation among Cooperatives’, a vision set forth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This idea encourages all cooperative institutions in the state to engage primarily with each other, fostering economic ties and mutual support.
The Governor’s address also included a call for the cooperative sector to focus on producing organic and natural products. He urged the cooperative societies to connect with local gau shalas (cow shelters) and create products that could enhance the livelihoods of farmers while preserving the environment.
In conclusion, Acharya Devvrat’s message was clear: a cooperative spirit can build a better world. With the right efforts, cooperative initiatives can lead to sustainable development and prosperity for all, particularly in rural areas. The conference served as a reminder of the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving common goals for the betterment of society.
Through these discussions, the leaders present at the conference aim to implement strategies that not only promote agricultural growth but also ensure that the benefits of cooperation reach every corner of society. With the right support and innovation, Gujarat can continue to thrive as a model for cooperative success.
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