Sat Nov 16 13:31:14 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Finance Minister Calls for Stronger Cooperative Movement
**Kollam, Kerala – November 16, 2024** – Kerala Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal has urged for increased support to bolster the state’s cooperative movement. Speaking at the 71st All India Cooperative Week celebrations in Kollam on Saturday, Mr. Balagopal highlighted the government’s commitment to the sector, emphasizing its crucial role in Kerala’s economy.
The Minister stressed the need to counter attempts to discredit the cooperative sector based on isolated incidents, promising strong action against those involved in unfair practices. He lauded successful cooperative models like the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society and cooperative hospitals, showcasing their potential for innovation. The government, he added, is actively implementing schemes to revitalize struggling cooperative societies.
The event, jointly organized by the Department of Cooperation and district-level cooperative unions, included the presentation of awards to individuals who excelled in cooperative examinations and competitions. A seminar on the amended Kerala Cooperative Act of 2023 and the impact of IT/AI on the cooperative sector was also held. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including MLAs, cooperative union officials, and representatives from Kerala Bank.
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