NCDC’s Cooperative Development Initiatives
The National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) plays a vital role in promoting cooperative societies in India. As a statutory organization under the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, NCDC has implemented various schemes to enhance the cooperative sector. One of the significant initiatives was the Integrated Cooperative Development Project (ICDP) scheme. However, this scheme was discontinued by the government as of April 1, 2021. This article delves into the details of the assistance provided under the ICDP scheme over the past three years and highlights the new Ayushman Sahakar Scheme aimed at improving healthcare services through cooperatives.
Overview of the Integrated Cooperative Development Project (ICDP)
The ICDP was a Central Sector Scheme designed to support the cooperative sector in India. It aimed to provide financial assistance to various states and Union Territories (UTs) to enhance their cooperative infrastructure. The scheme focused on improving the operational capabilities of cooperatives, thereby contributing to the overall economic development of the regions involved.
In the last three years of its operation, the NCDC sanctioned and disbursed funds to various states. The financial assistance was categorized by year, showing the amount sanctioned, disbursed, and cumulative disbursement. For instance, states like Andhra Pradesh and Bihar received no funds under the ICDP scheme, while others like Uttar Pradesh received significant assistance. The cumulative disbursement during the last three years totaled ₹483.09 lakh, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting cooperative societies.
The discontinuation of the ICDP scheme has raised questions about the future of cooperative development in India. Stakeholders are now looking for alternative avenues to sustain and grow the cooperative sector, especially in light of the new initiatives being introduced.
The Ayushman Sahakar Scheme: A New Initiative
In response to the evolving needs of the healthcare sector, the NCDC introduced the Ayushman Sahakar Scheme. This initiative aligns with the National Health Policy of 2017 and aims to enhance healthcare services through cooperative societies. Under this scheme, any cooperative society registered under the State or Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act can participate, provided they have provisions in their bylaws to offer healthcare services.
The primary objective of the Ayushman Sahakar Scheme is to promote the establishment and expansion of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) facilities. By encouraging cooperatives to engage in healthcare services, the scheme aims to contribute to the broader goals of the National Health Policy. Additionally, it encourages these societies to collaborate with the National Digital Health Mission, facilitating the digitalization of healthcare services.
The scheme not only aims to improve healthcare access but also seeks to ensure that healthcare services are inclusive and holistic. By providing financial assistance to cooperative societies, the NCDC hopes to create a robust network of healthcare facilities that cater to the diverse needs of the population.
Financial Assistance and Impact on Cooperative Societies
The Ayushman Sahakar Scheme has already begun to show positive results. Year-wise details of financial assistance disbursed under the scheme indicate a growing trend in support for cooperative societies. For instance, in the financial year 2023-24, the Government of Kerala received ₹275 lakh for the Muvattupuzha Cooperative Super Speciality Hospital and Research Center Ltd. This funding is expected to enhance healthcare services in the region significantly.
In the previous financial year, 2022-23, the Indian Medical Practitioners Cooperative Pharmacy & Stores in Chennai received ₹51.84 lakh. The cumulative financial assistance over the years demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening the cooperative sector in healthcare. The total amount disbursed under the Ayushman Sahakar Scheme from 2020-21 to 2023-24 reached ₹4,221.77 lakh, showcasing the impact of this initiative on cooperative societies.
The NCDC’s efforts through the Ayushman Sahakar Scheme are crucial for ensuring that healthcare services remain accessible and affordable for all. By empowering cooperative societies, the government aims to create a sustainable healthcare ecosystem that benefits the community at large.
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