Dhuri cooperative societies recover over 99% of loans, CM Mann felicitates them for setting new benchmark
Babushahi Bureau
Dhuri (Sangrur), May 22, 2025: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday honoured cooperative societies of the Dhuri circle for achieving an exceptional loan recovery rate of over 99%, calling it a remarkable achievement in the state’s cooperative sector.
Speaking at a function held to mark the International Year of Cooperatives, Mann lauded the Dhuri circle societies for setting a new standard in financial discipline. “This milestone deserves special recognition. At a time when several cooperative societies in the state are struggling with loan recovery, Dhuri’s performance is exemplary,” he said.
The Chief Minister stressed the need to strengthen the cooperative sector, terming it crucial for farmers and rural economic growth. He urged farmers to open accounts with cooperative banks, noting that these institutions offer loans at interest rates 3% lower than other banks. Mann cautioned against misconceptions about cooperative banks and encouraged the farming community to avail themselves of their benefits.
Mann added that banking sector experts are being roped in to enhance the operational efficiency of cooperative banks. He underlined the importance of rural participation in these institutions to boost economic activity and support agricultural progress.
The Chief Minister also spoke against the rising trend of extravagant weddings, stating they are pushing farmers deeper into debt. “There is an urgent need to embrace simplicity in weddings. Farmers must break the cycle of debt caused by competing with others in lavish spending,” he said.
Calling for cost-effective agricultural practices, Mann encouraged farmers to utilise custom hiring centres set up by cooperative societies. He said the government is providing subsidies for such equipment and emphasised the need for judicious use to reduce input costs and make farming a profitable venture.
Highlighting the government's ongoing focus on cooperatives, Mann said the sector has historically played a pivotal role in India's socio-economic growth, particularly in empowering the farming community post-Independence.
During his address, the Chief Minister also celebrated the academic achievements of girls in the recent examination results. “Girls have once again outshone boys, which reflects our government’s sustained efforts to provide quality education across the state,” he said, congratulating the meritorious students and their parents and teachers for their hard work and commitment.
Mann reiterated his government’s resolve to improve school infrastructure and ensure an enabling environment, especially for girls, to pursue higher education and become future role models.
Touching upon Punjab’s water rights, Mann hailed the vigilance and unity of the people who, for nearly 20 days, prevented Haryana and the Centre from taking Punjab’s water. “Punjab has always stood at the forefront—defending the country’s borders and now, its water. We will not allow a single drop to be stolen,” he asserted.
He accused previous governments of betraying the state’s interests on water issues, saying leaders from Congress, Akali Dal, and BJP had compromised Punjab’s rights for political gain.
Registrar Cooperative Societies Vimal Setia and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.