Amul's Recognition and the Global Cooperative Movement

Amul's Recognition and the Global Cooperative Movement underscores the pivotal role of cooperatives in fostering sustainable development. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants, especially for GS Paper 2 and 3, as it relates to governance, economic development, and social justice. Last Updated: 2025-11-05

Key Facts About Amul's Recognition and the Global Cooperative Movement

• The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) promotes sustainable cooperative business models worldwide.
• The World Cooperative Monitor evaluates the impact of major cooperatives globally.
• Cooperatives operate on the principle of “one member, one vote”, ensuring democratic governance.
• The 97th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2011 granted constitutional status to cooperatives in India.
• Article 19(1)(c) of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to form cooperatives.
• India is home to approximately 842,000 cooperatives, involving 290 million members.
• The National Cooperation Policy 2025 aims to establish 200,000 new M-PACS.
• Amul is recognized among the world’s top 10 cooperatives.

India's Cooperative Movement and Economic Growth

The cooperative movement is integral to India's socio-economic fabric, contributing significantly to rural development and economic growth. With cooperatives like Amul leading the charge, India showcases a robust model of collective business that aligns with national goals of inclusive growth. The establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation in 2021 underscores the strategic importance of cooperatives in achieving sustainable development. Globally, the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 with the theme “Cooperatives Build a Better World” highlights their pivotal role in economic resilience and social equity.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• National Cooperation Policy 2025: Aims to enhance cooperative education and establish new societies.
• Dairy Infrastructure Development Fund: Supports infrastructure development in the dairy sector.
• MSCS (Amendment) Act, 2023: Enhances governance and transparency of multi-state cooperatives.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity - Cooperative societies and their constitutional backing.
• GS Paper 3: Economic Development - Role of cooperatives in economic growth and rural development.
• Prelims: Questions on constitutional amendments, cooperative principles, and key cooperative organizations.
• Mains: Analytical themes on cooperative governance, economic impact, and social justice.

FAQ Section

• What is the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)?

  The ICA is a global organization that promotes cooperative values and sustainable business models worldwide.

• Why is Amul's recognition significant?

  Amul's recognition as one of the top 10 cooperatives globally highlights the success of India's cooperative model in achieving economic and social goals.

• What are the key features of the 97th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2011?

  This amendment granted constitutional status to cooperatives, ensuring their democratic governance and protection under Article 19(1)(c).