New Delhi: The Ministry of Cooperation has reviewed key priorities for strengthening India’s cooperative banking network under the National Cooperation Policy 2025, with a focus on improving institutional capacity, expanding financial services and accelerating digital transformation.
The high-level review meeting was co-chaired by Union Ministers of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar and Murlidhar Mohol. Discussions centred on reinforcing the three-tier cooperative credit structure comprising Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) and State Cooperative Banks (StCBs).
The meeting emphasised the importance of improving coordination and institutional strength across the three tiers of the cooperative credit system. A stronger network is expected to support the delivery of financial services to farmers, rural communities and other cooperative members.
Expanding the branch networks of cooperative banks was another key area of discussion. The ministers also reviewed the scope for introducing new financial products and improving cooperative banks’ access to government business, with the objective of broadening their service offerings and operational reach.
Enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure and digital capabilities emerged as an important priority. As cooperative banks increasingly adopt technology-driven services, improved digital systems and stronger security measures are essential to protecting transactions and strengthening customer confidence.
The discussions highlighted the need to improve technological readiness across cooperative banking institutions to help them respond to changing financial service requirements and emerging risks.
Special attention was also given to strengthening Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) through the National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation (NUCFDC).
The broader reform agenda reflects the Centre’s emphasis on improving the reach, operational capacity and resilience of cooperative banks across rural and urban areas.
By focusing on institutional strengthening, service expansion, digital preparedness and support for UCBs, the Ministry aims to reinforce the cooperative credit system and advance a more inclusive and sustainable cooperative banking ecosystem.