PM Modi To Inaugurate ICA Global Cooperative Conference On Nov 25

Why in the news?

PM Modi’s upcoming inauguration, cultural tributes, significant policy announcements on EPFO, fishing, and sports, alongside ongoing IFFI events, highlight India’s progress in various national sectors.

PM Modi To Inaugurate ICA Global Cooperative Conference On Nov 25

About National Events and Key Announcements:

  • PM Modi’s Upcoming Engagement: Scheduled to inaugurate the ICA Global Cooperative Conference on November 25, 2024.
  • Tribute to Visionaries: President Droupadi Murmu honoured the 125th birth anniversary of Harekrushna Mahtab, a renowned leader and cultural icon.
  • Recognition of Young Talent: Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar to be awarded to 82 young artists.

Policy Updates and Developments

  • EPFO Membership Growth: Net member addition increased by33%, reaching 18.81 lakh in September 2024.
  • Fishery Insights: Inland fishing now dominates marine fishing in India’s fish production, as highlighted by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh.
  • Sports Policy Vision: Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced plans for a comprehensive sports policy to establish India as a global sports leader.

Cultural and Entertainment Highlights:

  • 55th IFFI Updates: The International Film Festival of India is in full swing with screenings and events drawing significant attention.
  • Media Innovation: Prasar Bharati Chairman Navneet Sehgal introduced the Waves OTT platform, enhancing media accessibility.

Key Highlights of ICA Global Cooperative Conference 2024:

  • Objective: Showcase India’s leadership in cooperative innovation and strengthen global cooperation among cooperatives.
  • Expected Outcomes: Foster knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration for innovative solutions to global challenges.

About International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

  • Established: 1895 in London.
  • Objective: Promote cooperative development globally.
  • Members: Includes IFFCO, KRIBHCO, Amul, Coop Italia, WOCCU.
  • Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium.
  • Role: Advocates cooperative values, offers technical assistance, conducts research, and organises global events.

Cooperative Societies in India

  • Legal Framework: 97th Constitutional Amendment includes cooperatives under Article 19(1) and 43-B.
  • Types: Consumer, Producer, Marketing, Credit, and Housing Cooperatives.
  • Statistics: Over 8 lakh cooperatives registered.
  • Ministry of Cooperation: Established in 2021 to promote cooperative growth.

Government Initiatives to Strengthen Cooperatives:

  • Ministry of Cooperation: Established in 2021 to address cooperative sector challenges.
  • Financial Support Programs:
  • Model Bye-Laws for PACS: Enhance governance and transparency.
  • Computerization of PACS: Improve efficiency and modernise operations.
  • New Multipurpose Cooperatives: Expand cooperative networks in rural areas.
  • Decentralised Grain Storage Plan: Reduce losses and boost farmers’ income.
  • Diversification and Services:
  • PACS as CSCs: Offer e-services in rural areas.
  • Retail Petrol/Diesel Outlets and LPG Distributorships for PACS: Increase income sources.
  • Micro-ATMs and RuPay Kisan Credit Cards for Dairy Cooperatives: Provide financial services to rural citizens.
  • PM Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra and PMKSK: Improve access to affordable medicines and fertilisers.
  • PM-KUSUM Convergence: Promote solar energy among farmers.
  • FFPOs for Fish Farmers: Enhance market access and empower fish farmers.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times