The Executive Committee (ExCom) Meeting of the NEDAC was successfully convened on 24 Nov 2025 in Colombo. The meeting brought together senior representatives from leading cooperative institutions across the Asia-Pacific (AP) region. Dr. Sudhir Mahajan, IAS (Retd.), Chief Executive, NCUI, participated at this significant regional forum.

The meeting opened with a welcome address by Mr. Pankaj Kumar Bansal, IAS, Chairman, NEDAC, who underscored the growing importance of regional cooperation among agricultural cooperatives to address emerging developmental and climate-related challenges.

The NEDAC ExCom served as a vital decision-making platform for reviewing ongoing programmes, deliberating on strategic directions, and strengthening collaboration to advance sustainable agricultural and rural development. Member organizations also exchanged successful models, innovative practices, and policy insights relevant to cooperative growth in the region.

This year’s meeting was particularly notable as it coincided with the global celebrations of the UN IYC 2025. In partnership with the ICA-AP, NEDAC hosted several knowledge-exchange sessions highlighting the transformative role of cooperatives in rural prosperity, food security, and inclusive economic development.

Representing NCUI, Dr. Mahajan contributed meaningfully to discussions on strengthening sustainable cooperative models, boosting regional partnerships, and advancing NEDAC’s vision for agricultural development. His participation reinforced India’s continued commitment to cooperative-led rural transformation and regional solidarity.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks and networking interactions with ICA leadership and member delegates, paving the way for future collaborations.

As part of the IYC 2025 observance, NEDAC and ICA-AP also successfully organized a seminar on “Furthering Climate Resilient, Smart and Sustainable Agriculture through Cooperatives in AP.” The seminar brought together experts & policymakers who discussed innovative approaches, climate-smart technologies, and cooperative-led resilience models aimed at empowering farming communities and strengthening sustainability across the region.