Patna, Pramod Kumar Chandravanshi, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of the Legislative Council, formally assumed office as Bihar’s Minister for Cooperation on Tuesday, marking the occasion with the traditional blowing of a conch shell (shankhnaad).
Speaking to journalists shortly after taking charge, Mr Chandravanshi declared that the strengthening and modernisation of cooperative societies would be his top priority. “The development of cooperative institutions is paramount. Ensuring farmers receive the minimum support price (MSP) for their produce and promoting complete transparency in the ongoing paddy procurement process will be immediate focus areas,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the Cooperation portfolio is particularly close to Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, adding that he considered it a significant responsibility. He pledged to eliminate irregularities in procurement, empower women through cooperatives, and hold regular consultations with Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and farmers.
Mr Chandravanshi, who represents Jehanabad district and whose MLC term runs until March 2027, also highlighted the need for close coordination with officials to achieve developmental goals. “This government belongs to the poor, farmers, youth and women. The state and central treasuries exist for their welfare,” he stated.
