From Fields to Futures: Himachal’s Cooperative Revolution Empowering Rural Lives
About 20 lakh people benefitted from over 5000 cooperative societies
In the heart of Himachal Pradesh, a quiet revolution is transforming rural life—one cooperative at a time. The state government is championing cooperative movements not just as economic tools, but as engines of empowerment, inclusion, and self-reliance.
What began with agriculture, credit, and essential commodities has blossomed into a vibrant network spanning dairy, horticulture, handicrafts, and marketing. These cooperatives are more than institutions—they’re lifelines for nearly two million Himachalis, offering dignity through work, financial access, and community-driven progress.
With over 5,000 registered societies—including 2,287 Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (PACS)—cooperatives now touch every corner of rural existence. From fisheries and savings groups to dairy and marketing collectives, they’re helping farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs thrive.
The government’s vision is bold: a self-reliant Himachal built on sustainable growth, innovation, and youth leadership. Institutional reforms are underway to ensure cooperatives stay resilient and future-ready.
The dairy sector, in particular, is rewriting success stories. With 971 cooperatives and over 35,000 active women members, it’s a shining example of inclusive growth. The Him Ganga Yojana is modernizing milk procurement and processing, while Milkfed’s regional units streamline operations. Himachal even leads the nation by offering a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for milk—Rs. 61 per litre for buffalo milk—benefiting over 38,000 farmers daily.
Women are at the forefront of this movement. In Una, 5,000 women have united to form their own federation, marketing products under the ‘Him Ira’ brand. Initiatives like food vans are helping them become entrepreneurs in their own right.
To showcase Himachal’s rich cultural heritage, a new e-commerce platform connects local artisans and weavers to global markets. It’s not just about selling products—it’s about telling stories, preserving traditions, and building livelihoods.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu calls the cooperative movement a beacon of rural self-employment and youth opportunity. It’s a model of economic empowerment and social harmony—one that’s bringing the dream of an Atmanirbhar Himachal closer to reality.
