Collapse of the co-op system

Was it the system that failed, or was it due to human factors? In the latter category, the number one villain is obviously corrupt practices which eroded the link between the rural area and the markets. Now some big NGOs are doing well in running the modified system under micro-credit programmes which has drawn global attention.

Has the government lost interest to revive a modernised coop network? It is part of life in the third world countries. The review documents available are very scanty, and not up to date. Some seminars are called for. The new network should be easier to operate with thousands of NGOs working in the rural areas. What is the problem?

The basic areas of approach to an honest, workable re-planning exercise involves management, administration, monitoring and regulation. Two areas are sensitive: decentralisation promises; and political interference. The latter dominates our society today in the most vile, negative aspect, thanks to the development' of our political culture. Our parliamentary stance is also not improving. Have we any alternative in the choice of governance?

Coop net is basic to the rural development, as rural marketing is the weakest link. The private sector has developed fast lately, but it cannot still be trusted 100 per cent, as there are pockets of affluence, and the playing field is not level.

How about coop revival becoming an election issue? The proof of the pudding lies in the eating!