As an initiative to commemorate the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) organized a Study Exposure Visit to Gujarat from 3rd to 7th July 2025. The visit aimed to provide cooperative representatives from across India an opportunity to witness and learn from Gujarat’s dynamic and successful cooperative models.
A highlight of the program was the participation of delegates in the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony of the upcoming Tribhuvan Sahakari University in Anand on 5th July, performed by Hon’ble Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah. The occasion underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening the cooperative sector through education and innovation.
During the visit, delegates had the opportunity to engage with key cooperative leaders including Shri Dileep Sanghani, President of NCUI and Chairman of IFFCO, Dr. Chandra Pal Singh Yadav, President of ICA-AP, and Madam Jeena Potsangbam, Member of the NCUI Governing Council.
A major learning experience for the group was the visit to Amul Dairy and Amul Chocolate Factory in Anand. Delegates studied the Amul Cooperative Model, observing how consistent value addition and professional management have created sustainable income streams for millions of dairy farmers. The model stood out as a global benchmark in cooperative success.
Earlier, the group was welcomed at the Gujarat State Cooperative Union, where Chairman Shri G H Amin provided an overview of the state’s cooperative journey and ongoing initiatives. At Gujcomasol, Shri Y A Bloch (Adviser) and Shri J J Rupapara (General Manager) briefed the visitors on various activities and achievements of the organization, offering valuable insights into Gujarat’s agricultural and marketing cooperative frameworks.
To add a cultural dimension to the visit, the delegation also explored Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad and the Statue of Unity at Ekta Nagar in Narmada district, appreciating Gujarat’s rich heritage alongside its cooperative advancements.
The exposure visit was conceptualized and led by Ritesh Dey, Executive Director, NCUI, with Shri Pankaj Gupta, Assistant Director, coordinating the entire program. Delegates unanimously praised the initiative and expressed their enthusiasm for more such exposure visits in future — both within India and internationally — to further strengthen India’s cooperative movement.
This visit reaffirmed Gujarat’s reputation as one of India’s most progressive cooperative states and demonstrated the transformative power of collaboration and shared success in nation-building.
