Appraisal of a rural co-operative with the thrust on rural development: an empirical study

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study the progress of rural development through the performance of a rural co-operative. Design/methodology/approach – Random sample of 100 members of the co-operative have been selected. The opinion of sample members has been collected personally through questionnaire and also direct interview. Secondary data were collected from the published annual reports of the co-operative. The data, both primary and secondary have been tabulated in a suitable sheet prepared for the purpose. Analyzing and interpreting the collected data, conclusion has been drawn. Findings – The study reveals that the rural co-operative has been able to improve the living standard of the rural people of the studied area, thus the rural co-operative accelerated the process of rural development in remote India. Research limitations/implications – The study, is totally based on the sample opinion and published data of the co-operative. The period of study is very short. So, the outcome of the study may not be generalized. Practical implications – A smooth and active system of loan-issuance and loan-recovery of a rural co-operative may uplift the living standard of the rural populace. Originality/value – This research could assist in the management of a co-operative since management-efficiency regarding the recovery of loan has been proved in this paper.Co-operative organizations, India, Loans, Rural regions