The Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) in Madhya Pradesh are diversifying their operations beyond traditional activities like fertilizer and seed distribution or providing loans to farmers. They are now authorized to operate over 30 additional services, including petrol pumps, gas agencies, PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras, railway ticket booking, and bill payment centers. This initiative aims to enhance rural employment and income, aligning with the vision of 'Sahkar Se Samriddhi' (Prosperity through Cooperation).

Key Developments:

• Service Diversification: PACS can now engage in various activities such as operating petrol pumps, gas agencies, PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras, railway ticket booking, bill payment centers, dairy, and fishery services.
• Model Bylaws Adoption: The model bylaws have been adopted by all states, enabling PACS to diversify into over 25 different economic activities, strengthening the cooperative movement.
• Employment and Income Enhancement: The expansion of PACS services is expected to eliminate seasonal unemployment and benefit approximately 130 million farmers associated with these societies, especially in rural areas.
• Milk Collection Network Expansion: Efforts are underway to increase the milk collection network, aiming to connect 50% of villages within the next year, thereby boosting farmers' income.
• Kamdhenu Gopalana Yojana: The state government plans to implement this scheme, providing a 25% subsidy for units with 25 cows or buffaloes, with a maximum of 8 units per farmer, to promote dairy farming.

Conclusion: The expansion of PACS services in Madhya Pradesh signifies a transformative phase in the cooperative sector, aiming to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and promote rural development through diversified services and increased employment opportunities.