The Co-operation Department organized a successful "One Day at School" programme at Kamling Senior Secondary School, attended by 72 students and 10 teachers.
The event commenced with a welcome speech by Sonam Tshering Lepcha (CI), who introduced the concept of International Year of Cooperatives (IYC) and its global significance.
Mrs. Durga Chhetri (ARCS) presented a comprehensive PowerPoint Presentation on “Cooperatives”, covering topics such as:
The meaning and definition of cooperative societies
Historical background and evolution of cooperatives globally and in Sikkim
Cooperative principles and values
The policy mandate of 2002: “One GPU, One MPCS Ltd.”
Membership criteria and benefits
Role and structure of Apex Societies
A detailed case study on a Milk Producers’ Cooperative Society, highlighting its findings and impact on rural livelihoods.
Following the presentation, Mr. Yadap Chhetri (CI) addressed the gathering and spoke in detail about two key government initiatives:
1. Common Services Centres (CSC):
Mr. Chhetri explained how CSC is a flagship initiative under the Digital India programme aimed at delivering various government and non-government services to citizens in rural areas. Key points included:
CSCs act as access points for services like Aadhar enrolment, PAN card, bill payments, insurance, banking, and more.
Through CSCs, people in the GPU (Gram Panchayat Unit) can now easily enroll for government insurance schemes like PMJJBY, PMSBY, and PMFBY.
These centres are operated by local Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), generating self-employment and digital empowerment.
2. Van Dhan Vikas Yojana (VDVK):
He further elaborated on the Van Dhan Vikas Yojana, an initiative of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED, aimed at promoting value addition of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) through tribal-led cooperatives. Key highlights:
The scheme empowers tribal communities by creating Van Dhan Kendras (VDKs), which help in processing, branding, and marketing forest produce like broomsticks, medicinal herbs, wild honey, etc.
It supports capacity building and skill development for tribal youth.
VDVKs are integrated with the cooperative model, thereby ensuring sustainability, transparency, and income generation.
After his session, a quiz competition was conducted by Mesek Subba (CI) to engage students and reinforce key learnings from the event. Winners were awarded during the prize distribution ceremony.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Franza Subba (CI), who appreciated the participation of students and staff and encouraged everyone to stay connected with cooperatives for rural upliftment.