Cooperative movement in the bombay state.

The Co-operative Movement has gained new significance and momentum in India in recent years. The Planning Com mission has emphasised the importance and efficacy of the co operative method for the implementation of the various dev elopmental schemes under the First Five-Year Plan, especially in fields such as agriculture, marketing, cottage and processing industries, internal trade, housing, community projects, etc. If the Co-operative Movement is to play its part and become an effective instrument of democratic planning as contemplated under the Five-Year Plan, there is an urgent need for a continuous and intensive study of the development of the Movement in the various regions of the country.

Dr. Naik has made a good attempt at a comprehensive study of the development of the Co-operative Movement in the Bombay: State. The author has made a critical evaluation and analysis of the working of the different types of co-operative institutions. He has ventured to indicate the need for modification of some of the principles and policies of Co-operation in their application to underdeveloped economies like ours. The Movement must assume forms suited to different socio-economic conditions and environ ment. Analysing some of the factors that have hampered the healthy growth of the Movement, the author has rightly pointed out the need for a reorientation of the Movement if it is to catch the imagination of the masses and become a vital force in shaping the future of the country.