Strengthening Cooperative Banks for Rural Prosperity in Rajasthan

Dr. Samit Sharma, Secretary of the Government and Registrar of Cooperatives, highlighted the vital role of cooperative banks in enhancing rural prosperity in Rajasthan. During a recent video conference, he urged these banks to collaborate effectively to ensure that government schemes benefit farmers, women, and youth. The meeting also featured performance assessments of various cooperative banks, showcasing their contributions to rural development. With initiatives like doorstep banking and the construction of food storage facilities, cooperative banks are set to play a crucial role in transforming the agricultural landscape. This article delves into the strategies and successes of these banks in fostering growth and prosperity in rural communities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 10:06 IST

Key Role of Cooperative Banks in Rural Development

In Jaipur, Dr. Samit Sharma, the Secretary of the Government and Registrar of Cooperatives, emphasized on Friday the crucial role that district central cooperative banks and M-PACS play in enhancing the livelihoods of rural Rajasthan and its farmers. He stressed the importance of collaboration among all cooperative banks and M-PACS to ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach farmers, livestock owners, women, and youth.

During a video conference held from the Manthan Auditorium at the Secretariat, Dr. Sharma addressed the managing directors and staff of all district central cooperative banks and M-PACS. He highlighted the necessity for employees to be punctual and to provide services with full dedication and without discrimination. He called for collective efforts to position the state at the forefront of cooperative scheme implementation across the country.

The initiatives undertaken by district central cooperative banks under the 'Cooperation for Prosperity' program include proposals for the construction and utilization of warehouses under the world's largest food storage scheme, computerization of PACS, diversification of PACS businesses, onboarding new members in M-PACS, and facilitating doorstep banking through micro ATMs. The performance of these activities was assessed based on key performance indicators, with the Sikar District Central Cooperative Bank achieving the highest score of 67.42, securing the top position in the state. Bundi and Jodhpur District Central Cooperative Banks followed in second and third places, respectively.

Dr. Sharma informed that the Government of India has established KPIs for ranking PACS performance based on uniform standards at the national level. Monthly rankings will be released to assess the operations of M-PACS in the state. The assessment criteria include available resources, member outreach, financial status, loan distribution, audit compliance, and the operation of non-agricultural activities. Based on this month's assessment, the Nimod Village Service Cooperative Society topped the rankings with 77.50 points, while the Bhaiya Village Service Cooperative Society from Bundi secured second place with 76.50 points, and the Ghat Ka Barana Village Service Cooperative Society came in third with 74 points.

He mentioned that monthly rankings for all M-PACS will be published to foster healthy competition and enhance the services provided to their members.

During the video conference, a short film showcasing the immense potential and power of progress through cooperation was presented, along with success stories from the Bhagwan Pura Village Service Cooperative Society and the Nimod Village Service Cooperative Society. An online quiz related to cooperative prosperity, cooperative schemes, and banking systems was also conducted, attracting participation from over 5,000 individuals.