As Punjab continues to explore innovative strategies for agricultural growth through diversification and rural development, Punjab Additional Chief Secretary, Cooperation, Mr. Alok Shekhar on Wednesday said that the state would focus on boosting the fisheries sector with the help of existing Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) and establishing new Multipurpose Agricultural Cooperative Societies (mPACS).
At the Sahikarta Samelan Punjab held at Punjab Bhawan here today, Mr. Alok Shekhar commended the achievements of dairy-based societies and emphasized the importance of revitalizing the state's extensive network of ponds to boost fisheries and maintain groundwater levels with the help of cooperative societies. This event was part of a nationwide initiative to strengthen Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) and establish new Multipurpose PACS (mPACS).
Mr. Shekhar said that Punjab boasts an impressive 13,000 villages, with approximately 18,000 ponds that hold immense potential for fisheries development, however, most of these ponds have dried up over time, necessitating urgent rejuvenation efforts. He said that reviving these ponds would not only support fisheries but also contribute to maintaining groundwater levels and ecosystem balance in rural areas.
To achieve this goal, Mr. Shekhar advocated for encouraging existing PACS and establishing new mPACS. He said that these societies can play a vital role in establishing fish farms, marketing produce, and ensuring remunerative prices for farmers. Welcoming a valuable suggestion from a PACS representative farmer, the Additional Chief Secretary underscored the significance of conducting regular interactive sessions with PACS members and stakeholders.
These sessions, he emphasized, would provide a vital platform for strengthening feedback mechanisms, addressing grievances, and fostering innovative ideas through collaborative brainstorming. To this end, he directed department officials to organize such events at both district and state levels, ensuring a robust and inclusive approach to PACS development.
Earlier, Registrar Cooperative Societies and Director, Information and Public Relations, Mr. Vimal Kumar Setia, extended a warm welcome to ACS, Cooperation, Mr. Alok Shekhar, Secretary, Cooperation, Ms. Ritu Aggarwal, and other esteemed guests. Mr. Setia highlighted the pioneering initiatives being undertaken to propel the cooperative movement in Punjab.
He said that these initiatives are expected to have a transformative impact on the cooperative movement in Punjab, enabling cooperative societies to play a more effective role in promoting rural development, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and contributing to the state's economic growth. He emphasized the significance of the event, setting the tone for a productive and insightful gathering.
The event featured PACS representative farmers Mr. Ravinder Singh, Mr. Gurbaj Singh, and Mr. Gurdev Singh, who shared their inspiring success stories and offered valuable feedback, providing a unique perspective on the ground-level impact of cooperative initiatives.
Additional Registrar Cooperative Societies Sandeep Kumar delivered a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation, meticulously outlining the Punjab Cooperation Department's diverse operations, programs, and projects. This informative presentation provided a thorough understanding of the department's endeavours.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from MD Sugarfed Ms. Senu Duggal, expressing gratitude to all attendees and participants for their contributions to the gathering.