India has long showcased to the world the power and potential of cooperatives. From Amul’s dairy revolution to the wide network of agricultural and credit cooperatives, the country has offered a robust, people-led economic model that promotes inclusivity and grassroots empowerment. However, beneath this successful veneer lies a complex reality marred by nepotism, inadequate training, and a lack of professional management. It is in this context that the foundation of Tribhuvan Sahkari University in Gujarat is both timely and transformative. TSU aspires to become India’s first national-level cooperative university. The project is a practical step toward institutionalising professionalism in a sector employing nearly 30 crore Indians. By emphasising pre-service training over the current model of post-recruitment learning, TSU aims to break the cycle of nepotism that often sidelines merit and innovation in cooperative appointments.
One of the long-standing criticisms of the cooperative sector has been its politicisation and insular hiring practices, often influenced by local strongmen or family dynasties. This not only restricts new talent but also dilutes accountability and efficiency. TSU seeks to challenge this entrenched culture by producing a cadre of trained professionals-cooperative soldiers, experts, and administrators-who are equipped with the knowledge and ethics to modernise this vital sector. Moreover, despite its enormous reach and historic legacy, the cooperative movement in India remains fragmented and uneven. Many societies operate without adequate financial discipline, transparency, or technological adoption. TSU can address these shortcomings by introducing standardised curricula focused on management, digital transformation, legal frameworks, and community engagement.
The significance of this move also lies in the fact that the cooperative model is uniquely suited to India’s socio-economic landscape, particularly for rural and semi-urban populations. But for it to thrive in a 21st-century economy, it needs a systemic overhaul, not just sporadic success stories. India has already proven the strength of its cooperative spirit. Now it must ensure that this spirit is channelled through professionalism and structured development. If TSU delivers on its promise, it could become the crucible for a modern, corruption-free, and merit-based cooperative movement-one that lives up to the vision of Tribhuvandas Patel and Verghese Kurien.
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