Cooperatives – a powerful tool for rural economy: State Minister

Cooperatives represent a powerful social movement rooted in mutual cooperation, unity, trust, and collective development, no longer some form of economic activity. Ahmad Sohel Manzur, State Minister for Housing and Public Works, remarked that cooperatives can play a pivotal role, particularly in the rural economy, agriculture, fisheries, small-scale businesses, the empowerment of female entrepreneurs, and the engagement of youth in productive endeavors.

He made these observations while addressing, via a virtual connection, a discussion meeting held in Pirojpur on Sunday (November 8) to mark the 55th National Cooperative Day – 2026.

The State Minister noted that the core philosophy of cooperatives is, "Unity is strength; collective effort leads to prosperity." Many individuals lack the personal capital to invest or the capacity to run a business on their own; however, through collective initiatives, they can participate in economic activities. Cooperative-based ventures could play a significant role in the development of agriculture, fisheries, guava cultivation, small businesses, and local entrepreneurship in Pirojpur.

Under the theme, "Build cooperatives, build the nation, a Bangladesh for all," a vibrant rally was organized in the morning, starting from the Upazila Parishad premises. The rally traversed key roads in the town before concluding back at the Upazila Parishad grounds. Then, a discussion meeting was held in the Upazila auditorium.

Presided over by Deputy Commissioner Md. Golam Rabbani, the meeting featured several notable guests, including Superintendent of Police Mohammad Talebur Rahman, District BNP Convener Nazrul Islam Khan, Member Secretary S. M. Saidul Islam Kismat, and Sadar Upazila Executive Officer Md. Iftekharul Islam Shamim.

District Cooperative Officer Pankaj Kumar Chandra delivered the welcome address, while the session was moderated by Sadar Upazila Cooperative Officer Md. Ohiduzzaman Khan.

To mark the occasion, the District Administration and the Cooperative Office organized the hoisting of the national and cooperative flags, a colorful rally, an exhibition showcasing various rural initiatives led by cooperative members, and a formal discussion meeting. Local administration officials, public representatives, and leaders and members of various cooperative societies participated in it.

-    ZF/NS