Ministry of Cooperation
The Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002, is a central legislation that consolidates and amends the law relating to co-operative societies with objects not confined to one state. This Act aims to facilitate the voluntary formation and democratic functioning of co-operatives as people’s institutions based on self-help and mutual aid, enabling them to promote their economic and social betterment. It provides a legal framework for the registration, management, and operation of multi-state co-operative societies, ensuring their functional autonomy. The Act is crucial for regulating co-operative societies with operations spanning multiple states in India.
Act Background and Ministry:
The Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002, was enacted by the Parliament of India. It was designed to consolidate and amend the laws relating to co-operative societies with operations in more than one state. The Act falls under the purview of the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India.
Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The Act was enacted on July 3, 2002. It is structured into 126 sections, divided into 11 chapters, along with three schedules.
Act Governed By:
The Act is primarily governed by the Central Registrar of Co-operative Societies, who has the power to register societies, oversee their operations, and resolve disputes. The Act also involves the roles of the Central Government, State Governments, and various authorities and committees established under the Act.
On Whom it is Applicable:
The Act is applicable to all multi-State co-operative societies, which are those with objects not confined to one state and serving the interests of members in more than one state. It also applies to federal co-operatives and national co-operative societies.
Penalties/Punishments:
The Act does not specify penalties or punishments in the traditional sense. Instead, it focuses on establishing clear procedures and responsibilities for the operation of multi-State co-operative societies.
Important Pointers:
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Registration of Multi-State Societies: The Act outlines the requirements and procedures for the registration of multi-State co-operative societies.
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Membership: The Act defines who can be a member of a multi-State co-operative society and outlines their rights and liabilities.
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Management of Societies: The Act provides for the management of societies through a board of directors and specifies the powers and duties of officers.
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Financial Provisions: The Act regulates the investment of funds, borrowing powers, and distribution of profits for multi-State co-operative societies.
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Audit and Inspection: The Act provides for the audit of accounts and the inspection of the affairs of societies by authorized personnel.
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Dispute Resolution: The Act outlines the mechanisms for dispute resolution, including arbitration.
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Power to Make Rules and Regulations: The Act empowers the Central Government and the Authority to make rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of the Act.
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Co-operative Ombudsman: The Act establishes the office of the Co-operative Ombudsman for redressal of complaints.
Act Copy: