Punjab cuts cooperative registration fee to boost farmers

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 The North News

Chandigarh, December 20

The Punjab government has sharply reduced the registration fee for new agriculture, dairy and fisheries cooperative societies, in a move aimed at strengthening the cooperative sector and lowering entry barriers for farmers. Under the decision, approved by the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the registration fee has been cut from ₹10,000 to ₹1,000. Officials said the measure would make it significantly easier for producers across the state to form cooperatives.

The government expects the decision to encourage greater participation by small and marginal farmers, allowing them to organise collectively without the burden of high upfront costs. By expanding the cooperative base, officials believe the move will help raise farm incomes and strengthen the state’s cooperative network, including Milkfed Punjab.

The reform is part of a broader push by the state government to promote inclusive growth and farmer empowerment. Officials said cooperatives remain central to rural economic development, offering farmers access to organised marketing platforms and better bargaining power.

The government is also seeking to reinforce the dairy sector through targeted support for women. Under a scheme run by the Department of Rural Development, loans are being extended to women self-help groups to purchase cattle, covering up to 50% of the cost, subject to a maximum of ₹60,000.

The Punjab government said the changes reflect its aim to make the cooperative movement a cornerstone of prosperity and self-reliance in rural areas.