SC/ST inclusion in cooperative sector under spotlight in Legislative Council

The participation of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the cooperative sector came under scrutiny in the Legislative Council on Tuesday, with member K. Shivakumar demanding greater representation and access to credit for these communities.

Speaking during the discussion, Mr. Shivakumar noted that despite constitutional provisions and reservation policies, SC/ST members are often denied membership in primary agricultural cooperative societies, District Central Co-operative (DCC) banks, and other cooperative institutions. "Membership is not in proportion to the population of these communities or the extent of land they own," he said, urging the government to extend more loans and create more employment opportunities for SC/ST, backward class, and minority communities in the cooperative sector.

He specifically called for using the Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) grants to increase the membership of land-owning farmers from these communities. Citing official data, Mr. Shivakumar said that out of 11,357 cooperative societies in the State, a total of ₹5,980 crore was to be disbursed to SC and ST farmers under the reservation policy. However, only ₹3,094 crore was actually released. He demanded strict action against those violating government rules.

Responding to the concerns, Cooperation Minister Lakshman Savadi assured the House that steps would be taken, in accordance with existing rules, to increase membership and loan disbursement for SC/ST communities in the cooperative sector. He did not provide a specific timeline but indicated that the government would examine the issue seriously.

In a related matter, another member, Madhu G. Madegowda, raised the difficulties faced by farmers due to the prevailing drought conditions in the State. He urged the government to waive loans availed from cooperative societies to provide relief to affected farmers. Mr. Savadi said he would discuss the matter with the Chief Minister and a decision would be taken after due consideration.

The exchange highlights persistent gaps in the implementation of reservation policies in the cooperative sector, a key area for rural credit and agricultural support. While the government has acknowledged the issue, activists and members have called for faster and more transparent action to ensure that benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.

The Legislative Council's discussion comes amid broader debates on social justice and economic inclusion, with several members stressing the need for concrete measures rather than mere assurances. The government's response will be closely watched in the coming months.