New Delhi (India), November 25 (HBTV): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched the United Nations' International Year of Cooperatives 2025 and unveiled a commemorative postal stamp during the Global Cooperative Conference 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

The Ministry of Cooperation highlighted that the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, themed 'Cooperatives Build a Better World', aims to underscore the transformative role cooperatives play in fostering social inclusion, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.

A release from the Prime Minister's Office noted that cooperatives are recognized by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as vital contributors to addressing global challenges, such as inequality, poverty alleviation, and promoting decent work. The initiative will showcase the impact of cooperative enterprises in building a more equitable and sustainable world.

The commemorative postal stamp, symbolizing cooperative values, features a lotus representing peace, strength, resilience, and growth. The design incorporates five petals representing the Panchatatva (five elements of nature), emphasizing cooperatives' commitment to sustainability across environmental, social, and economic spheres. It also highlights key cooperative sectors, including agriculture, dairy, fisheries, consumer cooperatives, and housing, with a drone symbolizing the integration of modern technology in agriculture.

(ANI)