RAMBAN: As part of the ongoing 72nd Cooperative Week celebrations, Banihal two major facilities were inaugurated by MLA Banihal Sajad Shaheen, aimed at strengthening the educational and cooperative sectors in the region.
The MLA inaugurated a smart classroom at Shah-e-Asrar Cooperative Educational Institute, Kaskoot Banihal, bringing modern learning facilities to students. He also inaugurated a food processing unit of Banihal Trout FPO Cooperative Ltd, a step towards enhancing local entrepreneurship, trout value addition and livelihood generation for fisher communities.
The events were attended by the Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies Ramban, Tehsildar Banihal, Assistant Registrar Cooperative Societies, Chairman and Principal of the institute, staff members and students.
Welcoming the dignitaries, the Principal highlighted the institution’s history and its academic and co-curricular achievements. He paid tribute to the founding members and assured support for the early approval of the proposed school building through the Building Screening Committee.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies Ramban briefed the gathering on the importance of Cooperative Week and the growing contribution of cooperative institutions in the district.
The MLA congratulated the school management and Cooperative Department for establishing smart classroom. He announced ₹2 lakh CDF grant for construction of a boundary wall at the proposed school site and assured support in pursuing building permission with higher authorities.
Reviewing the Trout FPO unit, the MLA was briefed on its objectives and future expansion plans related to processing, packaging and marketing. He appreciated the efforts of the Cooperative Department and FPO members, emphasising the need to strengthen cooperative-led enterprises for rural economic upliftment.
The celebrations concluded with enthusiastic participation, marking a successful observance of the 72nd Cooperative Week in Ramban district.