Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan has instructed officials of the Cooperative Department to complete the computerization and data migration of Multi-Purpose Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (MPACS) by December 31. Chairing a review meeting at the Secretariat, he announced that physical data entry will be completely discontinued from January 1, 2026, making digital operations the norm across the cooperative network.
Transition to Full Digital Operations
Bardhan emphasized that the transition from manual to digital data systems is critical for ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accountability within cooperative institutions. To achieve the deadline, he directed that progress must be regularly monitored at both the district and state levels. District Magistrates, cooperative officers, and the state Secretary will oversee the process, while a detailed timeline for data updation will be circulated to all stakeholders for strict adherence.
The Chief Secretary also underlined the importance of expanding cooperative institutions to unserved Gram Panchayats, urging the formation of new MPACS, dairy, and fishery societies. He said dairy development should be prioritized, with modern technology adopted to enhance milk production and quality. Promoting dairy as a sustainable livelihood, he noted, would empower rural families and especially women in self-help groups.
Boosting Jan Aushadhi Kendra Transactions
During the review, Bardhan expressed concern over the low transaction volumes at Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras currently being operated through MPACS. He directed authorities to set measurable targets and work toward achieving a monthly turnover of ₹2 crore by December 2025. This, he said, would make cooperative-run outlets more viable and expand affordable access to essential medicines.
Cooperative Development as Growth Driver
Highlighting the role of cooperatives in rural development, the Chief Secretary said strengthening MPACS and allied societies would help create employment opportunities, increase rural incomes, and improve service delivery. He urged officers to focus on innovation, digital tools, and greater accountability to build stronger community-based institutions.
Attendees of the Review
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary L. Fanai, Secretary Dr. B.V.R.C. Purushottam, NABARD Chief General Manager Pankaj Yadav, Registrar of Cooperatives Meharban Singh Bisht, Additional Secretary Himanshu Khurana, and other senior officers. District Magistrates from across the state joined the review via video conferencing, underscoring the government’s focus on statewide coordination and timely execution.
The Road Ahead
With this directive, Uttarakhand has set a clear digitalization deadline for its cooperative network. The move is expected to not only modernize record-keeping but also improve financial oversight, service delivery, and growth of cooperative institutions across rural areas. The emphasis on dairy and fisheries, coupled with targets for Jan Aushadhi Kendras, suggests a multi-pronged strategy to make cooperatives stronger economic pillars in the state.
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