Bhavnagar

Establishment of the Junior Training Centre in Bhavnagar:

As of 1 March 1958, a junior training centre was functioning in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, under the management of the Gujarat State Co-operative Union.

Shift of the Training Centre to Nilambagh Palace:

In 1982, the training centre was shifted from a rented house in old Darbargarh to the Nilambagh Palace house in Bhavnagar due to the deteriorating condition of the previous building.

Leadership of Shri Ghanshyambhai Amin:

In 1993, Shri Ghanshyambhai Amin assumed the leadership of Gujarat State Co-operative Union, bringing significant improvements to co-operative activities.

Identification of Inadequate Facilities:

During his visits to various cooperative training institutes, Shri Ghanshyambhai Amin noted the inadequate facilities at the cooperative management centre in Bhavnagar.

Proposal for a New Cooperative Management Centre:

Shri Ghanshyambhai Amin proposed the construction of a modern co-operative complex in the name of Shri Vaikunthbhai Mehta Co-operative management centre to replace the inadequate facility in Bhavnagar.

Mr. Amin expressed optimism, suggesting that with financial backing from the Urban Banks Federation and other cooperative organizations, a cooperative management centre like Pune, bearing the name of Mr. Vaikunthbhai Mehta can be build and accordingly a centrewas built under the chairmanship of Shri Ghanshyambhai Amin within a short span of two years.

This endeavour marked a significant achievement in the realm of cooperative management. Under Mr. Amin’s leadership, the project swiftly transformed from concept to reality, showcasing the power of collaboration and effective governance. The establishment of this centre not only honoured the legacy of Mr. Vaikunth Bhai Mehta but also provided a valuable resource for cooperative development. Its completion within such a brief timeframe underscored the dedication and efficiency of all involved parties.

Initiation of Fundraising and Planning:

A fundraising effort was initiated, and a building committee was formed under the leadership of Shri Ghanshyambhai Amin to plan and execute the construction of the new cooperative management centre.

Land Acquisition and Groundbreaking Ceremony:

Land was purchased at Nari village, and on November 19, 2006, a foundation ceremony was held for the construction of the ‘Shri Vaikunthbhai Mehta Sahakari Management Kendra’ on the acquired land.

Completion and Inauguration:

On December 18, 2009, the construction of the cooperative management centre was completed, and an inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of state and district co-operative leaders.

Training Offered: 

The centre offers a 20-week Diploma in Cooperative Management basic course covering various subjects such as cooperative principles, history, management, administration, laws, accounting, audit, business development planning, and computer application

Expansion and Additional Facilities:

Further construction was taken up for the building of a men &women hostel, staff quarters, guest houses, and dining facilities to accommodate the growing needs of the centre.

Inauguration of Additional Facilities:

The women’s hostel, kitchen, and dining hall were inaugurated on March 14, 2023, further enhancing the centre’s capacity and capabilities.

Description of Infrastructure:

The infrastructure details of the Shri Vaikunthbhai Mehta Cooperative Management Centre withmodern facilities and accommodationsincluding classrooms, hostels, the principal’s residence, staff quarters, etc.