Question

Visit any cooperative society and prepare a report on its membership and functioning.

Answer 1

(1) Introduction:

I visited a local cooperative society, GreenGrow Farmers’ Cooperative Society, in my area. The main aim of this society is to support small farmers by providing farming inputs, credit facilities, and marketing assistance.

(2) Membership:

1. Eligibility: Membership is open to all farmers in the village who are 18 years of age or older and agree to follow the society’s rules.
2. Strength of membership: The society has 125 members, mostly small and marginal farmers.
3. How members join: To become a member, a person must-
   • Fill out a membership form.
   • Purchase a minimum number of shares in the society.
   • Pay a small entrance fee.
   • Get approval from the managing committee.
4. Rights of members:
   • Each member has one vote, regardless of their share capital.
   • Members can attend meetings, receive services, and share in the surplus.

(3) Functioning of the cooperative society:

1. Management: The society is managed by an 11-member managing committee elected every three years. It includes a president, secretary, treasurer, and committee members.
2. Services provided:
   • Supply of farm inputs: Seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and tools are provided at reasonable rates.
   • Credit facilities: Short-term loans are given to farmers at low interest rates.
   • Marketing of produce: The society helps members sell their products collectively and secure better prices.
   • Storage services: It offers small warehouse facilities for storing grains.
3. Sources of funds: Members’ share capital, government grants, cooperative banks, and surplus income.

(4) Benefits to members:

• Inputs at fair prices.
• Availability of loans.
• Elimination of middlemen.
• Better price for produce through collective selling.
• Technical guidance on modern farming methods.

(5) Conclusion:

The cooperative society plays an important role in improving farmers’ economic conditions. It encourages teamwork, supports self-help, and strengthens the rural community. The visit helped me understand how cooperative societies operate and serve their members.