Bihar Eyes Chhattisgarh’s Model for Forest Produce Cooperatives

Patna: Dr. Prem Kumar, Minister of Cooperative and Forest Departments, visited Chhattisgarh from October 16 to 17, 2024, to study the state’s procurement programs and forest produce-related cooperative societies. During his visit to Gariaband district, he reviewed the Vanaushadhi Processing Center and interacted with local cooperative members, who shared how the initiative had provided consistent employment opportunities, eliminating the need to seek work elsewhere.

Impressed by the efficient operation of the cooperative societies in Chhattisgarh, Dr. Kumar highlighted the potential for similar projects in Bihar. He emphasized that forest produce in Bihar could be processed and marketed as medicinal products, creating new economic avenues. He also praised Chhattisgarh’s bonus scheme in the procurement process, which ensures fair prices for farmers.

Dr. Kumar stressed that Bihar could improve the economic conditions of forest-area residents through cooperative efforts and outlined his intention to collaborate with the Forest and Cooperative Departments. This initiative aims to harness Bihar’s forest resources for economic development, improving the livelihoods of those in forest regions.