Cooperative Finance and Sustainable Development Goals: The Contribution of PACCS to Inclusive Rural Development in Tamil Nadu | IJCT Volume 13 – Issue 2 | IJCT-V13I2P49
International Journal of Computer Techniques
ISSN 2394-2231
Author
G. Vigneshwaran, Dr K. Ravichandran
Abstract
This paper examines the contribution of Primary Agricultural Cooperative Credit Societies (PACCS) to inclusive rural development in Tamil Nadu, focusing on selected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Based on secondary data, the study analyses how PACCS support poverty reduction, food security, gender equality, employment generation, reduced inequalities, and strong institutions. The findings show that short-term loans, Kisan Credit Card support, and Self-Help Group financing improve access to credit and strengthen rural livelihoods. The cooperative legal framework and mandatory audit provisions further enhance transparency and accountability. The study concludes that cooperative societies serve as strong grassroots institutions that contribute to sustainable development in Tamil Nadu.
Keywords
Primary Agricultural Cooperative Credit Societies, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, and 16) and Livelihood.
Conclusion
The study highlights the critical role of Primary Agricultural Cooperative Credit Societies (PACCS) in promoting inclusive rural development in Tamil Nadu. Through short-term loans, Kisan Credit Card support, and Self-Help Group financing, PACCS improves access to institutional credit for farmers, women, and marginalised communities. This financial support contributes to poverty reduction, improved agricultural productivity, employment generation, and social inclusion, aligning with SDG 1, SDG 2, SDG 5, SDG 8, and SDG 10. The historical evolution of cooperative legislation — from the Cooperative Credit Societies Act, 1904, to the 97th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2011 and the Tamil Nadu Cooperative Societies Act, 1983 — shows that cooperatives have been legally strengthened over time. Provisions for democratic governance, representation of SC/ST and women on boards, regular elections, and institutional autonomy promote equality and participatory management. Further, the strong audit mechanism under Section 80, the inquiry provisions under Section 81, and the presence of Cooperative Tribunals ensure accountability and transparency. The role of the Director of Cooperative Audit as Registrar (Audit) strengthens financial discipline within the system. These legal and administrative safeguards make cooperative societies stable and accountable grassroots institutions. Therefore, cooperative finance in Tamil Nadu is not merely a credit-delivery mechanism but a strong institutional framework that supports sustainable development. By combining financial inclusion with democratic governance and regulatory oversight, PACCS contribute significantly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16 – Strong Institutions.
References
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How to Cite This Paper
G. Vigneshwaran, Dr K. Ravichandran (2026). Cooperative Finance and Sustainable Development Goals: The Contribution of PACCS to Inclusive Rural Development in Tamil Nadu. International Journal of Computer Techniques, 13(2). ISSN: 2394-2231.
Cooperative Finance and Sustainable Development Goals The Contribution of PACCS to Inclusive Rural Development in Tamil NaduDownload
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