Source: IE
Context: The Lok Sabha has passed a Bill to establish Tribhuvan Sahkari University in Anand, Gujarat, named after Tribhuvandas Patel, founder of the Kaira Milk Union (Amul).
About Tribhuvandas Patel:
- Early Life & Background:
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- Born: 22 October 1903 in Anand, Kheda district, Gujarat.
- Family: Son of Kishibhai Patel, a farmer; studied at DN High School, Anand.
- Education: Graduate from Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad.
- Participated in movements like Civil Disobedience, Salt Satyagraha, and anti-untouchability drives; jailed in Nasik (1930) and Visapur.
- Contribution to the Cooperative Movement:
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- Founded Kaira Milk Union (Amul) on 14 December 1946 to end dairy exploitation by private traders like Polson Dairy.
- Promoted inclusive village-level dairy cooperatives based on:
- One man, one vote principle
- Equal participation across castes and communities
- Appointed Dr. Verghese Kurien and supported him in building the foundation of India’s White Revolution.
- Later helped establish:
- National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)
- Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA)
- Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF)
- Role in Freedom Struggle:
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- Close follower of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles.
- Dedicated life to rural upliftment, community health, and self-reliance.
- Founded Tribhuvandas Foundation from public donations to serve rural health needs.
- Recognitions & Awards:
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- Ramon Magsaysay Award (1963) for Community Leadership.
- Padma Bhushan (1964) for Social Service.
