Young Indian Cooperator Harsh Shines at CM50 Global Conference

I had the honour of representing the voice of global youth at the CM50 – Cooperative Ministers Conference held in Doha, where I participated in my capacity as the President of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Youth Committee and Youth Representative to the ICA Global Board. This was a landmark gathering of global cooperative leadership, marking the 50th anniversary of the ICA's engagement with governments and policymakers.

Being introduced at the event as the nephew of Shri Dileep Sanghani, Chairman of IFFCO and NCUI, was a moment of pride for my family and for the cooperative movement in India.

A Historic Summit for Global Cooperation

The CM50 summit served as a significant high-level policy dialogue on how cooperatives can shape the future of the world economy. One of the most historic outcomes of the event was the collective adoption of 'A Contract for a New Global Economy' — a transformative framework that places people, planet, and peace before profit.

This framework projects cooperatives as the 'Third Way of Economy' — offering a balanced and humane alternative to both capitalism and socialism. It envisions an economic model that promotes growth with equity, sustainability, and social well-being.

Representing Youth on the Global Stage

At the conference, I was the only young leader among ministers and policymakers from across the world. My participation ensured that the perspectives, aspirations, and priorities of young people and future generations were actively integrated into the global cooperative dialogue.

I emphasized that youth must not just inherit the future — but shape it by participating in policymaking and leadership within the cooperative movement.

Seeing our vision for cooperatives as the Third Way of Economy being recognised and accepted internationally is truly remarkable.

Gratitude and Vision

Reflecting on the experience, it was an honour to represent young cooperators worldwide at such a pivotal global platform. I expressed my deep gratitude to Shri Mukundraoji Deobhankar, whose mentorship has guided my efforts toward strengthening the global cooperative vision.

I highlighted that the adoption of 'A Contract for a New Global Economy' is more than a policy declaration — it is a global commitment to building economies rooted in democracy, dignity, and sustainability.

A Shared Resolve for the Future

The CM50 conference concluded with a shared resolve among global leaders to advance cooperative-led solutions to global challenges such as inequality, climate change, and social exclusion — reaffirming cooperatives as a bridge between economic development and human welfare.

- Harsh M. Sanghani