State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam today called for modernising cooperative products and taking effective steps to expand their presence in both domestic and international markets.

Speaking at a discussion marking the 104th International Day of Cooperatives at the Department of Cooperatives in Agargaon, he stressed that strengthening existing cooperative societies through improved quality, efficiency and capacity should take precedence over increasing their number.

The event, themed "Cooperatives for a Peaceful World," began with the hoisting of the national flag, followed by the release of balloons and pigeons as symbols of peace. 

The state minister also visited stalls displaying cooperative products.

During the programme, Mir Shahe Alam exchanged views with officials from divisional, district and upazila levels and heard about field-level challenges. 

He directed authorities to enhance district offices by preparing development project proposals (DPPs), expanding operations, ensuring promotions, improving infrastructure, procuring necessary equipment, resolving tax issues and strengthening administrative capacity. 

He also said he would gradually visit upazila-level cooperatives to address their problems.

Highlighting the government's commitment to the sector, he said cooperatives play a vital role in socio-economic development, poverty reduction and sustainable development by promoting unity, self-reliance and mutual cooperation.

As special guest, Bangladesh National Cooperative Union President and Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam said cooperatives have significantly contributed to rural economic inclusion, women's empowerment and employment. 

He called for expanding training, providing low-interest loans, introducing incentive packages and undertaking legal reforms to make cooperatives more people-friendly.

Director General of the Department of Cooperatives Md. Selim Fakir presided over the programme, attended by senior government officials and cooperative representatives.