DHAKA, Nov 1, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at a function here today said that cooperatives represent a model of collective progress, promoting economic and social development through mutual cooperation, equality, and shared responsibility.

They made the observations at a discussion held at the Multipurpose Hall of the Department of Cooperatives in Agargaon, Dhaka, marking the 54th National Cooperative Day 2025.

Secretary (Routine Duties) of the Rural Development and Cooperatives Division Md Ismail Hossain presided over the event. 

Registrar and Director General (Additional Charge) of the Department of Cooperatives Munima Hafiz, Additional Registrar (EPP) Md Ahsan Kabir, and Registrar of the Department of Cooperatives and President of the BCS Cooperative Association Kazi Mesbah Uddin Ahmed also spoke on the occasion.

The speakers said that 'cooperatives' are formed when the limited capacity of an individual is enhanced through the collective strength of many.

They noted that cooperatives are not merely economic entities but also reflect a social philosophy that inspires people to work together for shared growth and well-being.

The cooperative system, they said, frees people from exploitation and discrimination while establishing economic justice, where everyone-rich and poor, men and women, educated and uneducated-enjoys equal rights.

Referring to the number of cooperatives in the country, the speakers said there are currently 1,74,930 cooperatives, generating employment for approximately 1,595,742 people, with a working capital of Taka 38,107.81 crore.

Highlighting the government's role in strengthening the cooperative sector, they said that under the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, the Department of Cooperatives has undertaken the implementation of an Integrated Digital Service Delivery Platform to bring all cooperative services under a digital framework, ensuring greater transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

They also referred to the Bangladesh Milk Producers' Cooperative Union Limited (Milk Vita), a flagship national cooperative established in 1973 with government financial support of Tk 13.12 crore to protect the interests of dairy farmers and boost milk production.

The speakers expressed their firm belief that sustainable development and a prosperous, developed Bangladesh can be achieved through a cooperative-based society.