Mangaluru: "We took an oath today in front of Molahalli Shivarav, and if we truly work according to that pledge, co-operatives will not only grow at the state level but will also achieve national recognition," said Sahakara Ratna Dr. M.N. Rajendra Kumar, President of Dakshina Kannada District Central Co-operative (SCDCC) Bank, during the 145th birth anniversary celebration of the Father of the Co-operative Movement, Late Molahalli Shivarav.

The event was organized jointly by the Dakshina Kannada District Central Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mangaluru, and the Dakshina Kannada District Co-operative Union Ltd., Mangaluru, at the SCDCC Bank Hall.

In his address, Dr. Rajendra Kumar stated: "Molahalli Shivarav significantly contributed to three sectors — Education, Local Administration, and Co-operatives. However, today, it is only the co-operative sector that remembers and celebrates him. Co-operative banks play a vital role in society, especially in supporting farmers. They said suicidal cases of farmers because not able to repay on time. But in our region has achieved a remarkable milestone with a 100% loan repayment rate with zero suicidal rate of farmers— a unique success story that is possible only in Dakshina Kannada."

Delivering a special lecture, Udaykumar Iruvatturu Retd Principal of University College said: "During times like World War, when there was a shortage of food, co-operative societies played a crucial role, and Molahalli Shivarav was actively involved. Today, documentation of our contributions is lacking because of this we are losing prominent things of our history. Without understanding history, it is difficult to build a future."

At the event, Vinay Kumar Surinje, Vice President of SCDCC Bank, Raviraj Hegde, President of Dakshina Kannada Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union Ltd., and Kishore Kodli, President of CAMPCO, extended their best wishes.

Other dignitaries present included Mooda President Sadashiv Ullal, CEO of SCDCC Bank Gopalakrishna Bhat, NABARD DGM Sangeetha Kartha, and directors Chittaranjan Bolar, Sathish, along with other directors of both the SCDCC Bank and the Dakshina Kannada District Co-operative Union Ltd.

On this occasion, the Karavali Sahakari monthly magazine was released, and its editor Mohandas Marakada was honored by Dr. M.N. Rajendra Kumar.

Shashikumar Rai Balgottu, President of Dakshina Kannada District Co-operative Union Ltd., welcomed the gathering. Harish Acharya delivered the vote of thanks.