PR No – 13
11th November, 2024
New Delhi
PHDCCI Unites Leaders to Strengthen the Cooperative Movement in Northeast India
The Cooperative Taskforce of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) successfully hosted a high-impact seminar titled “Leveraging Cooperatives for Sustainable Development in Northeast India” at Hotel Vivanta, Guwahati. The event convened prominent government officials, industry leaders, and cooperative experts to discuss strategic opportunities aimed at strengthening the cooperative movement in the Northeast region.
The keynote session provided valuable insights into the current landscape of cooperatives and explored innovative pathways to promote social and environmental resilience. Smt. Sushila Hazarika, Chairman of the Assam Apex Cooperative Fish Marketing & Processing Federation Ltd (FISHFED), served as the Chief Guest. She highlighted the vital role of cooperatives as catalysts for inclusive growth across Assam and the broader Northeast.
“Cooperatives play a crucial role in fostering economic development at the grassroots level. By empowering local communities, we can achieve sustainable growth and social equity throughout the region,” said Smt. Hazarika.
Dr. G. D. Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM Meghalaya, delivered the special address, emphasizing the deep cultural and economic significance of the cooperative movement in Northeast India. “The cooperative model aligns with our traditional values of community and shared prosperity. It is essential for driving socio-economic development in the Northeast,” remarked Dr. Sharma.
Other notable speakers included Mr. Nitul Gogoi, IPS, Former ADG of Assam Police, and Shri Rajeev Bora, IAS, Former Chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission, who shared their perspectives on enhancing the cooperative sector’s impact.
Following the keynote, a panel discussion on “Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Promoting Traditional Crafts and Handlooms through Cooperatives” provided a collaborative platform to explore cooperatives’ role in improving regional agriculture and preserving traditional crafts. Moderated by Mr. Rupesh K. Pandey, Senior Secretary of PHDCCI, the panel featured insights from Mr. Loken Das, CGM, NABARD, Assam RO; Mr. Robert H. Touthang, Regional Director (NER), NCDC; Mr. S. B. Bose, Managing Director, North East Dairy and Foods Ltd. (NEDFL); Dr. Pranab Baishya, Faculty, Institute of Cooperative Management, Guwahati and Mr. Ashish Kumar, Regional Head, Powergilt
Panelists discussed cooperative models that could enhance productivity, improve market access, and empower rural artisans and farmers, thereby promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Dr. Jatinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General of PHDCCI, underscored the transformative potential of cooperatives to achieve sustainable development in Northeast India. “Cooperative-driven approaches can foster economic resilience, support traditional crafts, and boost agricultural productivity, addressing the region’s unique challenges,” he emphasized.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Bibhuti Dutta, Resident Director (NER), PHDCCI. Participants expressed optimism about the seminar’s impact on shaping impactful policies and pioneering cooperative-driven models across the Northeast.
“This event marks a significant step forward in building a sustainable future for Northeast India by fostering synergies among cooperatives, industry, government, and local communities,” said Shri Dutta.
The seminar was sponsored by Powergilt and supported by PHDCCI’s annual sponsors, including DLF Ltd.; Jindal Steel & Power; KLJ Group; Multani Pharmaceuticals Ltd.; Marble City; MMG Group; Radico Khaitan Ltd.; Uflex Ltd.; Vestige; Eazy ERP Technologies; JK Tyre & Industries Ltd.; Sagar Group of Industries; Superior Industries Limited; Samsung India Electronics; Oswal Greentech; Apeejay Stya Group; Blossom Kochhar Beauty Products Pvt Ltd.; DCM Shriram; R E Rogers; Trident Group; Ajit Industries Pvt Ltd.; Bhagwati Plastic and Pipes Industries; Central Coalfields Ltd.; DD Pharmaceutical Ltd.; Hindware Sanitary; Jindal Steel; Modern Automobiles; and P S Bedi & Co.
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Warm Regards,
Media Division
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry