• India is hosting the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Global Conference in Delhi from November 25 to 30, 2024.
  • This marks the first time in the 130-year history of the ICA that the conference will be held in India.
  • The event, organized with the initiative of IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited), will feature around 3,000 delegates, including representatives from over 100 countries, with 1,000 foreign delegates.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025 at the event, underscoring the significance of the global cooperative movement.
  • Key Participants:
    • The conference will see the participation of around 3,000 delegates, including 1,000 foreign delegates from over 100 countries.
    • Notable international figures attending the event include:
      • Bhutan Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay
      • Fiji Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica
    • The Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will chair the inaugural session of the conference as Chief Guest on November 25, 2024.
    • Pakistan’s Participation:
      • When asked about Pakistan’s participation, Secretary Ashish Kumar Bhutani stated that over 100 countries have confirmed their participation, but some countries require protocol approvals from the Ministry of External Affairs.
      • Specific details regarding the participation of Pakistani representatives were not clarified, though it was indicated that protocols were being followed for such cases.

THEME OF THE CONFERENCE

  • The theme of the conference is "Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All".
  • The sub themes include:
    • Enabling Policy and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: Discussing how cooperatives can be supported through favorable policies and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
    • Nurturing Purposeful Leadership to Create Prosperity for All: Focusing on leadership in cooperatives that ensures inclusive growth and prosperity.
    • Reaffirming The Cooperative Identity: Reaffirming the fundamental principles and values that guide cooperatives globally.
    • Shaping the Future: Towards Realizing Prosperity for All in the 21st Century: Envisioning the future role of cooperatives in fostering global prosperity.

INDIA’S ROLE IN GLOBAL COOPERATIVES MOVEMENT

  • India is home to around 8 lakh cooperatives, making it a leader in the global cooperative sector.
  • According to Cooperation Secretary Ashish Kumar Bhutani, 25% of the world’s cooperatives are based in India, showcasing the country’s vital role in the movement.
  • The conference will provide a platform for India’s cooperative sector to demonstrate its strength and potential on the global stage.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE EVENT

  • The conference serves as an important opportunity for India to showcase the strength and diversity of its cooperative sector, which has a crucial role in the country’s economy, particularly in agriculture, finance, and rural development.
  • The event also aims to promote greater global cooperation in the field of cooperatives and sustainable development, as cooperatives are seen as key players in creating prosperity and achieving inclusive growth.
CONCLUSION India's hosting of the ICA Global Cooperative Conference is a significant moment for the country, recognizing its leadership role in the cooperative sector. The conference will provide a global platform for cooperatives to share knowledge and build networks aimed at achieving sustainable prosperity. With its focus on policy innovation, entrepreneurial ecosystems, and inclusive leadership, the event is expected to catalyze further growth in the cooperative movement and its role in global development.