India’s cooperative movement has achieved a new milestone. The Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF), which owns the Amul brand, and the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd. (IFFCO) have claimed the top two spots globally in the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) World Cooperative Monitor 2025.
The rankings, based on GDP per capita performance, were announced at the ICA CM50 conference. They reflect both organisations’ ability to combine economic success with social development, a hallmark of the cooperative model.
GCMMF: Farmers at the Heart of Amul’s Success
GCMMF’s achievement reinforces its role as the backbone of India’s dairy revolution. Entirely owned by farmers, Amul operates under a three-tier cooperative system. It connects over 18,600 local dairy societies and 3.6 million milk producers, ensuring fair returns and transparency.
Over the years, Amul has transformed India from a milk-deficient country into the world’s largest milk producer. Its model links rural empowerment with national food security. Moreover, Amul’s focus on value-added products and strong brand identity continues to support rural livelihoods and the national economy.
IFFCO: Strengthening India’s Agricultural Base
Ranked second globally, IFFCO is one of the world’s largest fertiliser cooperatives. Established in 1967, it works through a network of 35,000 member cooperatives, serving more than 50 million farmers across India.
IFFCO’s growth strategy includes strategic acquisitions and international partnerships in five countries. By promoting efficient fertiliser use and sustainable practices, it plays a vital role in India’s agricultural productivity and food security.
Recognition and Global Context
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the achievement, calling it a “proud moment for Bharat.” He noted that India’s cooperatives have become a global model of empowerment and self-reliance, reflecting the government’s focus on strengthening the sector under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Other notable names in the Top 10 include Groupe Crédit Agricole (France), Sistema Unimed (Brazil), Groupe BPCE and Crédit Mutuel (France), REWE Group (Germany), and Nonghyup (South Korea). These rankings highlight the diversity and resilience of cooperatives across sectors, from finance to healthcare and food.
A Testament to India’s Cooperative Strength
The strong performance of GCMMF and IFFCO shows how India’s cooperative framework continues to drive inclusive growth. Both organisations have demonstrated that democratic ownership, professional management, and innovation can coexist effectively.
As global dairy and agricultural markets face volatility, India’s cooperatives stand out for balancing profitability with purpose. Their continued success could inspire other nations to adopt similar models, promoting sustainability, equity, and community-led development.
