Bhuwaneshwar, Odisha : A one-day workshop and state-level review on PACS computerization and RCS offices was held today at Swosti Premium Hotel, Chanakya Hall. The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Cooperative Department. Senior officials from RCS, AGCS, NIC, NABARD, OSCB, and district cooperative societies were also present.
The Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) serve as the backbone of the rural economy in Odisha. With the state government prioritizing digital transformation, computerization of PACS is expected to improve transparency, efficiency, and service delivery for farmers and rural residents. Some PACS were still operating manually, resulting in delays, inefficiencies, and lack of accountability. The new initiative will integrate all PACS into the National Level PACS Computerization Software (NLPS) platform, enabling seamless operations across the state.
Shri Patil highlighted that computerized PACS will function like one-stop shops, providing farmers access to all agricultural, financial, and cooperative services under a single roof. From loan disbursement to supply of fertilizers at affordable rates, farmers will now receive more streamlined, reliable, and timely services. This digital integration will also enhance coordination between village, block, and departmental offices, ensuring smoother management and better monitoring of resources.
The workshop included sessions on troubleshooting current system issues, using digital tools for efficient operations, and adopting best practices from other states. Officials discussed strategies for improving farmer registration, commercial diversification of PACS, and transparency in day-to-day operations. The state-level review emphasized the importance of training and capacity building for staff at all levels to ensure successful implementation.
PACS computerization is aligned with the vision of “Viksit Odisha” and the central government’s “Cooperative Prosperity” initiative, emphasizing the role of digital technology in strengthening rural institutions. By connecting PACS to a national digital platform, Odisha is creating a robust network that will enhance operational efficiency, financial inclusion, and rural economic development.
Shri Patil also underlined that PACS computerization will not only improve service delivery but also boost accountability, reduce errors, and increase credibility of cooperative societies. With a focus on digital record-keeping, transparency in fund utilization, and easier monitoring, this initiative will empower farmers and strengthen the cooperative network from the grassroots to the state level.
The workshop concluded with a state-level review meeting assessing progress, identifying challenges, and charting out a roadmap for future implementation. Officials stressed the importance of coordinated action, monitoring, and proactive problem-solving to ensure that all PACS are computerized efficiently and fully functional on the NLPS platform.
By making PACS more digital, transparent, and accessible, the Odisha government aims to ensure that farmers and rural communities benefit from modern technology, timely services, and improved financial inclusion, paving the way for a sustainable and developed rural economy.
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