Himachal Pradesh Government to Revise Cooperative Act for Improved Governance and Efficiency
In a significant move to strengthen the cooperative sector, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced plans to amend the Cooperative Act of 1972. The decision to revise the law and introduce stricter audit regulations was made during the first state-level cooperative conference, held at the Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute in Mashobra. The conference was chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri.
Strengthening Governance and Accountability
Deputy Chief Minister Agnihotri underscored the necessity for an updated legal framework to enhance governance and accountability within the cooperative sector. He assured stakeholders that the amendments would be thoroughly discussed and finalized through consultations with all concerned parties. Once the proposed changes are consolidated, a new law will be introduced in the state assembly to address existing systemic issues and challenges faced by the sector.
Enhancing Operational Capacity
In addition to legal reforms, the state government is focusing on boosting the operational capacity of the cooperative department. One of the key initiatives includes a plan to fill 900 vacant positions within the department. Furthermore, the government has allocated budgetary provisions for the computerization of 1,789 cooperative societies, aiming to improve their efficiency and streamline operations.
Call for Public Input and Stricter Audit Measures
Registrar of Cooperative Societies, R.K. Pruthi, encouraged members of cooperative societies to provide their suggestions for the proposed amendments. Stakeholders are invited to submit their input via email to registrarecooperativehp@gmail.com within the next 15 days. This feedback will be reviewed and potentially included in the new legislation.
Pruthi also emphasized the importance of timely audits, noting that many cooperative societies fail to meet the September 30 deadline for audits. Under the amended Act, the Assistant Registrar will have the authority to appoint auditors directly if a cooperative society neglects to do so. In addition, all cooperative societies have been directed to conduct their general house meetings by March 31, 2025, and to ensure the appointment of auditors by April 15, 2025.
A Vision for a Modernized Cooperative Sector
The conference reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernizing the cooperative movement and tackling the challenges the sector faces. The proposed amendments to the Cooperative Act and the focus on better governance, accountability, and operational efficiency are expected to foster greater trust and transparency within cooperative institutions. These changes are seen as crucial steps towards ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the cooperative sector in Himachal Pradesh.
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