Working for the development of cooperative sector in Assam

A BNE Exclusive Interview

1. What is the main motive and role of the Directorate of RCS?

The main motive and role of the Directorate of RCS are to work for the all-around development of the cooperative movement in the State. To achieve this, the Assam Cooperative Societies Act, 2007 empowers the RCS to register, supervise, assist, and counsel the cooperative societies of the state.

2. How successful has the Directorate of RCS been in the establishment of a strong and vibrant Cooperative Sector in the state?

The Registrar of Cooperative Societies has been by and large successful in the establishment of a resilient and vibrant cooperative sector in the state through effective supervision, guidance, and motivation of the cooperative societies of the state. Advocacy programmes, workshops, and training programmes are being conducted regularly to accelerate the pace of development of the cooperative movement in Assam.

3. How does RCS help in the economic upliftment of the cooperative societies of the Northeast?

The RCS is empowered to work for the development of the cooperative movement in Assam as per the provisions of the Assam Cooperative Societies Act, 2007. However, whenever the need arises, the RCS cooperates in whatever way possible to strengthen the cooperative movement in all the other states of the Northeast.

4. What are the different activities performed under the Directorate of RCS? What kind of revenue generation is expected from RCS?

Different activities performed under the Directorate of RCS are the registration of cooperative societies; their supervision; the conduction of their Annual General Meetings, their audit; the handling of grievances of cooperative societies, and such other activities as having been prescribed by the Assam Cooperative Societies Act, 2007 for the all-round development of the cooperative movement. Revenue generation is through registration fees, audit fees, and registration and renewal fees under the Assam Money Lenders Act, 1934.

5. How many total societies are incorporated under RCS? What is the procedure for the allocation of funds to different societies? How many funds are allocated to each society on average?

As of 31/03/2021, there are 13,722 cooperative societies under the RCS, Assam.

Assistance is provided to those cooperative societies fulfilling the eligibility criteria set for obtaining the said assistance. Funds are also allocated under various schemes of NABARD and NCDC through the Govt. of Assam.

There is no specified quantum of funds to be provided to each society because funds are allocated as per the fulfillment of criteria set for obtaining the funds.

6. Are there any special schemes facilitated for the development of cooperative societies?

At present, there are no special schemes being implemented by the Directorate.

7. How does your department ensure proper utilization of funds by the cooperative societies?

Proper utilization of funds by the cooperative societies is ensured through regular monitoring and auditing of the projects for which the funds are allocated. Moreover, utilization certifications together with the Statement of Expenses are to be submitted by these cooperative societies invariably.