Question: I would like to start co-operative in my village and panchyat, initially I would like to work in the field of Dairy/Agriculture/Fruit and flower production.

I want to know how can I start it and from where will l arrange fund for these activities?

Is there any manual on cooperatives to guide any new entrant? Please help me so that I can go ahead with forming a cooperative. Alok Tiwary

I C Naik: Provisions incorporating a Co-operative Society in a village are laid down in the Cooperative Societies Act enacted by the State. Minimum number of members who can register a Cooperative Society is prescribed in that Act which is normally a two digit number, all being unrelated to each other.

Important criteria examined before registration is economic viability of a proposed society. Since an agriculture produce society is proposed the Agriculture Marketing Produce Society may be contacted to assess and estimate marketing prospects before-hand.

Following these steps are essential requirements. After these are accomplished a good ground for registering a co-operative is ready.

Finance is not scarce in this country, what is scarce is well meaning citizens who can work shoulder to shoulder on any project with patience and enthusiasm.