Push for varsity for co-operative studies

The chairman of the Karnataka State Co-operatives Federation GT Deve Gowda is pushing for a university for co-operative studies.
He also wants graduates of the university to be given preference in appointments to co-operative banks and other  financial institutions.

“I have already discussed the matter (setting up the university) with the chief minister Jagadish Shettar and he has responded positively,” Gowda said on Monday.

“The government has agreed on this. Only the finance department is objecting to the proposal. But I will get it done,” he said.
Currently, students who study Co-operation as a subject for graduation and postgraduation, are not given priority while making appointments to co-operative banks and other  financial institutions.

 “I will get an amendment passed to give preference to those who study Co-operation while making appointments to co-operative institutions and banks,” he said.

Gowda said he would also see to it that every family in villages and taluks becomes a member of a co-operative society.
 “Stringent action will be initiated against those who stop Dalits from becoming its members,” he said.

On the Centre’s decision to allow foreign direct investment in the retail sector, he said it would  pose a serious challenge to the co-operative movement in the country. Making a dig at BJP leaders, he said 70% of them were indulging in anti-party activities. The same leaders are now accusing him of planning to join JD (S), he said.

 “I don’t know why I am targeted. I had worked hard to built the party base in Mysore region. Today, we stand a good chance of winning elections. I’ve never thought of joining any other party,” he said.