The year 2025 marks developments in India’s economic and democratic frameworks. The cooperative movement gains renewed focus as a model of inclusive growth. Simultaneously, the Election Commission of India (ECI) undertakes a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, sparking political debate and legal scrutiny. These parallel events show India’s ongoing efforts to balance economic equity and democratic integrity.
Economic Liberalization and Its Aftermath
Since the 1991 economic reforms, India shifted from a state-controlled to a liberalised market economy. This change spurred growth, foreign investment, and global integration. Deregulation and privatisation boosted industries and services. However, wealth concentration increased sharply. The richest 10% own over three-quarters of the country’s wealth. Rural and informal sectors often remain excluded from these gains.
Cooperatives as Inclusive Economic Institutions
Cooperatives offer an alternative to corporate concentration. They promote democratic ownership and wealth sharing. For example, Amul’s Rs 90,000 crore turnover benefits millions of farmers, unlike large conglomerates where profits concentrate among few shareholders. Cooperatives transform rural economies by distributing power and income broadly.
The Ministry of Cooperation and Institutional Support
The establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation in India strengthens the cooperative ecosystem. It aims to empower farmers, rural entrepreneurs, and women through institutional backing. The ministry’s vision includes revitalising cooperatives for inclusive growth and self-reliance under political leadership.
Historical Foundations of the Cooperative Movement
India’s cooperative success rests on a trinity – social capital, political will, and managerial innovation. Leaders like Tribhuvandas Patel, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Dr Verghese Kurien shaped this legacy. Today, institutions like IRMA and leaders such as R.S. Sodhi continue this tradition. Sustained grassroots engagement remains vital.
Role of IRMA and Amul in Cooperative Success
IRMA trains professionals to manage cooperatives ethically and efficiently. Amul exemplifies democratic governance and equitable wealth distribution. Together, they demonstrate how cooperatives can scale sustainably while serving member interests and local economies.
Education and Social Capital in Cooperation
Cooperative values such as trust and mutual aid cannot be rushed. Education is key to nurturing these principles. Embedding cooperative ethics in curricula and initiatives like Tribhuvan Sahkari University encourages future leaders. This approach supports long-term cooperative growth and social equity.
Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR)
Recently, the ECI launched the SIR to update voter lists by removing ineligible, deceased, or relocated voters. Bihar was the first state for this exercise, with 6.6% of voters removed. The move faced opposition protests alleging disenfranchisement of poor and migrant voters. The Supreme Court upheld the revision legally.
Legal Framework and Electoral Integrity
The ECI operates under Articles 324 and 326 of the Constitution and the Representation of the People Act (RPA). It has authority to revise electoral rolls to ensure accuracy. Officials deputed for electoral duties are accountable under law. The ECI can penalise negligence to safeguard election fairness.
Political Controversies and Public Trust
Opposition parties accuse the ECI of bias and conspiracies to exclude voters. State governments show mixed responses to official accountability. The ECI faces the challenge of maintaining impartiality and transparency. Public trust depends on credible, timely actions and clear communication.
Document Requirements and Voter Rights
The revision process requires valid documentation from voters. This has raised fears of citizenship loss and deportation among vulnerable groups. The Supreme Court directed the ECI to publish deletion details to enhance transparency. Balancing security and inclusivity remains a delicate task.
Significance for Indian Democracy and Economy
Both cooperative revitalisation and electoral reforms reflect India’s efforts to strengthen democracy and promote equitable growth. Cooperatives encourage social justice in the economy. Electoral integrity ensures fair political representation. Together, they contribute to India’s democratic resilience and developmental aspirations.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the role of cooperative institutions in promoting inclusive economic growth in India with suitable examples.
- Critically analyse the challenges faced by the Election Commission of India in maintaining electoral integrity during voter list revisions.
- Estimate the impact of economic liberalisation on income inequality in India and discuss measures to address it.
- Underline the constitutional provisions and legal safeguards that empower the Election Commission of India to conduct free and fair elections.
