The Indian cooperative movement has achieved significant milestones over the years, yet much remains to be done. Conceived as a citizen-centred initiative, the cooperative model was meant to empower ordinary members and promote collective growth. However, over time many organizations within the sector have come to depend heavily on government support, often distancing decision-making from the very members they represent.
In many cases, ordinary members remain unaware of how key decisions are taken at the top. A small group of individuals frequently forms organizations and ends up exercising disproportionate control over them. Such practices undermine the democratic spirit that lies at the heart of the cooperative movement.
This news portal was created to bridge that gap. Its purpose is to inform and empower ordinary members by providing transparent, credible information about the functioning of cooperative institutions. At the same time, the portal seeks to support and highlight the efforts of individuals and organizations genuinely committed to strengthening India’s cooperative movement.
Starting as a modest initiative towards the end of 2009 with about 30,000 monthly readers, indiancooperative.com quickly grew in reach and influence. By 2012, the portal was attracting more than 30 lakh visitors per month. Today, it receives nearly 1.5 lakh daily hits, reflecting the growing interest in cooperative affairs.
More importantly, the platform provides a common space where voices from across the cooperative spectrum can be heard, from grassroots members to national-level leaders, and from practitioners to believers in the cooperative model of development.