MSCS IN WEST BENGAL

Why in news

The article provides data on the number of Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) in West Bengal and details the progress of the Central Sector Project for Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), including financial assistance provided to the state.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS3 · Governance, Economy, Society · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. As of July 15, 2026, there are 1840 Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) nationwide.
2. West Bengal has 73 MSCS.
3. The Central Sector Project for Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) was launched in 2022.
4. Initially, 63,000 PACS were approved with a financial outlay of ₹2,516 crore.
5. The project now covers 79,630 PACS with a revised outlay of ₹2,925.39 crore.
6. 4,187 PACS have been sanctioned in West Bengal under the computerization project.
7. West Bengal has received financial assistance of ₹50.79 crore for PACS computerization.
8. The National Cooperation Policy, 2025 was unveiled on July 24, 2025.
9. The National Cooperation Policy has 6 strategic pillars, 16 objectives, and 83 recommendations.

Prelims pointers

• Number of MSCS nationwide as of July 15, 2026.
• Number of MSCS in West Bengal.
• Launch year of the Central Sector Project for Computerization of PACS.
• Revised financial outlay for PACS computerization.
• Number of PACS sanctioned in West Bengal under the project.
• Total financial assistance provided to West Bengal for PACS computerization.
• Key features of the National Cooperation Policy, 2025 (strategic pillars, objectives, recommendations).

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of the Central Sector Project for Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and the National Cooperation Policy, 2025, in strengthening the cooperative sector in India. Analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation, particularly in states like West Bengal.

Static linkage

The article relates to the cooperative sector in India, which is a significant part of the Indian economy and society. The development and modernization of cooperative societies, particularly PACS, are crucial for rural credit delivery and agricultural development. The National Cooperation Policy aims to provide a framework for the growth of this sector.

Significance

The computerization of PACS is vital for improving transparency, efficiency, and accessibility of credit in the cooperative sector. The National Cooperation Policy, 2025, provides a strategic direction for the overall development of cooperatives, aiming to enhance their contribution to economic growth and rural livelihoods. The data on MSCS in West Bengal highlights the state's participation in the cooperative movement.