Rangpur:High-ranking officials have emphasized the significant role that joint investments by cooperative societies can play in alleviating poverty and contributing to national socio-economic progress. This was highlighted during a discussion organized to mark the 55th National Cooperative Day-2026.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was jointly organized by the Divisional Commissioner's Office and the Department of Cooperatives Office at the District Shilpakala Academy auditorium. A day-long product fair with 22 stalls was also held at the nearby Public Library grounds as part of the celebration.
Md Abdul Motalab Sarkar, the Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) of Rangpur division, attended the event as the chief guest, while Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Israt Jahan presided over the discussions. Md Masud Parvez, the Rangpur Divisional Joint Registrar, delivered the welcome address, and a documentary on the objectives and functions of cooperatives was showcased.
Special guests at the event included Zila Parishad Administrator Md Saiful Islam, District Cooperative Officer Md Zahidul Hasan, Additional Superintendent of Police Md Zainal Abedin, and Chairperson of the Rangpur Central Cooperative Bank Ltd Mst Rezwana Islam. They all contributed to the discussions.
In his address, the chief guest remarked that individuals with similar goals can achieve better outcomes through cooperative and democratic processes. He emphasized that cooperative societies, established across various districts and upazilas, are playing a unique and commendable role in society. Referencing the slogan of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, he noted that cooperatives are rooted in villages and local communities, where people from various backgrounds work together for socio-economic advancement.
He further stressed the need for cooperative societies to modernize and become self-reliant to ensure sustainable development, urging them to prioritize national development through mutual cooperation, sound planning, and financial discipline.
Deputy Commissioner Israt Jahan, in her closing speech, highlighted the role of cooperatives in fostering entrepreneurship and expanding employment opportunities across the country. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates and crests to four outstanding cooperators and eight cooperative societies. A rally was also held prior to the discussion, attended by government officials, cooperative society members, entrepreneurs, and political figures.