Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chaired a review meeting of the National Cooperative Organic Limited (NCOL) in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by key officials, including Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Murlidhar Mohol, NCOL CMD Shri Minesh Shah, NABARD Chairman Shri Shaji K.V., and senior representatives from the Ministry of Cooperation.
Key Decisions and Directions
Strengthening the Organic Mission
Shri Amit Shah emphasized linking all Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) with the organic mission. A nationwide campaign will promote organic products, prioritizing the identification of authentic organic sources and ensuring product purity.
- NCOL will focus on building a robust supply chain for authentic organic products under the “Bharat Organics” brand.
- Mandatory testing of every product batch will ensure purity and authenticity.
- Farmers associated with Amul and NDDB institutions will be encouraged to adopt organic farming practices.
Marketing and Farmer Incentives
Shri Shah stressed the importance of good marketing strategies and fair pricing for organic products to motivate farmers to switch to organic farming.
- NCOL will collaborate with Amul to determine attractive prices for organic flour and Arhar dal.
- Farmers in Uttarakhand, for instance, have earned 10%-15% higher profits from paddy procurement facilitated by NCOL.
- Organic products will be actively promoted during festivals to increase consumer demand.
Expanding the Role of PACS
PACS across the country will become:
- Centers for organic product procurement and sales.
- Hubs for selling organic seeds.
- At least one young farmer will be included in each of the 2 lakh cooperative societies to strengthen local cooperative structures.
- Training programs for PACS members and farmers will ensure effective participation.
Financial Support Mechanisms
Shri Shah directed NABARD, in collaboration with the Ministry of Cooperation, to develop a new mechanism for PACS. This will provide farmers with loans tailored to their financial capacities, encouraging broader participation in organic farming initiatives.
Conclusion
Union Minister Shri Amit Shah highlighted that the success of organic farming hinges on awareness, efficient marketing, and ensuring fair returns for farmers. With PACS as key players and NCOL’s efforts to maintain quality and supply chain integrity, the organic farming movement aims to uplift farmers and meet growing consumer demand.
