Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Cooperation Minister Dr Arvind Sharma has said the state government is working towards 100% computerisation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) while expanding financial support for women through self-help groups and cooperative institutions.
Speaking at an event organised by The Central Cooperative Bank, Bhiwani, on Tuesday, Sharma said cooperation could help families achieve financial self-reliance and contribute to the country’s economic development.
During the programme, the minister distributed cheques worth Rs 5 crore to 250 women’s self-help groups in the district. He also inaugurated a PACS facility in Golagarh village and a cooperative bank branch in Siwani.
Sharma visited an exhibition of products made by women belonging to self-help groups and encouraged them to pursue self-employment and become financially independent.
Haryana Pushes PACS Computerisation And Cooperative Reforms
The minister said computerisation of PACS across Haryana was progressing towards complete coverage. He added that a new state cooperative policy was expected to be introduced soon.
Sharma said the government wanted to strengthen cooperative institutions and make their services more accessible to families across the state. He referred to the broader cooperative vision associated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, saying cooperative networks could help connect communities and support economic development.
The minister also highlighted efforts to make financial assistance more accessible to women’s self-help groups and liability groups, with the aim of reducing procedural barriers to credit.
Women’s Groups To Receive Easier Access To Loans
Sharma said women’s groups were being encouraged to use cooperative institutions to access loans and start income-generating activities. According to the minister, self-help groups and liability groups could help women pool resources, establish businesses and improve their financial independence.
He said a self-help group could be formed by 20 women, while a liability group could comprise 10 women. He also referred to provisions intended to help groups open accounts and begin operations without extensive formalities.
The minister emphasised that financial independence could improve women’s confidence and strengthen their role in household and community economic activity.
Rs 5 Crore Support For 250 Self-Help Groups
The distribution of cheques worth Rs 5 crore to 250 self-help groups was a key part of the Bhiwani event. The minister said cooperative institutions could provide women with opportunities to develop their products and build sustainable livelihoods.
The inauguration of the Golagarh PACS facility and Siwani cooperative bank branch was also presented as part of the effort to expand access to cooperative services.
Sharma said the department’s priorities included modernising cooperative infrastructure, improving access to finance and encouraging more families and women to participate in cooperative activities.
