Secretary Cooperatives Reviews Cooperative Sector Performance at DCDC Meeting in Kargil.

Secretary Cooperatives Reviews Cooperative Sector Performance at DCDC Meeting in Kargil.
Kargil, February 02, 2026: A meeting of the District Cooperative Development Committee (DCDC) was held today at Kargil under the chairmanship of Secretary Cooperatives, UT of Ladakh, Bhupesh Chaudhary, IAS, along with Deputy Commissioner/CEO LAHDC, Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, to review and assess the overall functioning of the cooperative sector in the district.
During the meeting, the Secretary Cooperatives reviewed the existing cooperative framework and gave directions that feeding and related benefits should be extended only to genuine cattle-owning beneficiaries, strictly through cooperatives, and individual benefits outside the cooperative system should be avoided. He assessed the functioning of dairy cooperatives and emphasized that dairy farming should be developed on a model-based cooperative supply system, ensuring organized procurement and distribution.
The Secretary further assessed the status of cooperative societies and stressed the need to bring more stakeholders under the cooperative fold, with phase-wise expansion of cooperatives at village level. It was noted that 39 cooperatives are non-functional, and directions were given to review such societies, include new and interested members, and take necessary action after proper assessment.
The role of NDDB and establishment of micro milk plants was reviewed to strengthen the dairy sector. The Secretary also reviewed issues related to fodder feed and fisheries feed, and emphasized promotion of organic inputs, including vermi-compost procurement and promotion. The need for computer-literate manpower for smooth functioning of cooperatives and formulation of a rental policy for cooperative assets was also discussed. Departments were advised to regularly connect with cooperative societies and assess the functionality of plants and units on the ground.
The Deputy Commissioner suggested exploring coordination with Army and BRO wherever feasible to support cooperative activities. He also suggested strengthening farmer awareness and outreach, particularly in agriculture and allied sectors.
The Secretary reviewed progress in agriculture, horticulture, poultry, and allied activities, and gave directions to focus on fodder development, horticulture growth, orchard expansion, and effective implementation of PM Fasal Bima Yojana with wider farmer inclusion. Emphasis was also laid on increasing production of wheat, barley, and potato, and better utilization of schemes.
The Deputy Commissioner suggested promotion of sprinkler irrigation systems and use of demonstration practices to improve productivity. Departments were advised to identify gaps in existing schemes and take corrective measures accordingly.
The meeting concluded with a review of coordination among departments and emphasis on improving ground-level implementation to strengthen the cooperative sector and enhance farmers’ livelihoods in the district.
Later, the Secretary, Shri Bhupesh Chaudhary visited the Farmers Producer Organization (FPO) in Pashkum and their sales unit shop in Baroo, Kargil, which is provided by the Cooperative Department Kargil. The visit was aimed to evaluate ground-level operations, boost local value addition, and enhance market access for agricultural and fish products, promoting economic empowerment for local farmers.
The Department aims to streamline cooperative efforts and enhance the sustainability of the agricultural, fisheries, and marketing initiatives in the Kargil district.