Ex-minister seeks incentives for coop, handloom sectors

Former Minister Satya Prakash Thakur has extended his support to the Himachal Pradesh state Budget while urging the government to introduce special incentives for the cooperative and handloom sectors. In a statement, Thakur welcomed the Budget’s focus on various industries but emphasised that cooperatives and handlooms, crucial to the rural economy, require targeted policies to foster growth and sustainability.

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Highlighting the cooperative sector’s historical significance, Thakur noted that Himachal Pradesh, particularly Una district, played a key role in the cooperative movement, which has now expanded across the country, employing millions and contributing to the success of several major brands. The sector’s importance has been acknowledged at the national level, leading to the formation of the Union Ministry of Cooperation, currently led by Amit Shah, to promote and strengthen cooperative enterprises across India.

Despite the Budget’s comprehensive approach, Thakur pointed out that cooperatives and handlooms have not been given due attention. He urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to introduce new schemes and reinforce existing programmes to support these industries, which not only sustain the rural workforce but also preserve the cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.

Thakur stressed that special incentives would significantly boost the state’s cottage and small-scale industries, ensuring financial stability and job creation for artisans and cooperative workers. He expressed confidence that the Chief Minister, being aware of the state’s economic landscape, would prioritise initiatives that strengthen these sectors.

At a time when Himachal Pradesh is focusing on sustainable rural development, Thakur’s proposal highlights the need for dedicated funding and policy support for cooperatives and handlooms.