International Day of Cooperatives

International Day of Cooperatives History

The International Day of Cooperatives in India is observed on the first Saturday of July every year. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the importance of cooperatives and their contributions to society. Cooperatives are organizations that are owned and run by their members, who work together to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs. They are based on principles such as voluntary and open membership, democratic control, and the distribution of surplus based on member participation.

The International Day of Cooperatives was first celebrated in 1923, and it became an official United Nations observance in 1995. In India, cooperatives have a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. They have played a significant role in the development of agriculture, banking, and consumer goods sectors. The first cooperative society in India was established in 1904, and since then, the movement has grown significantly.

In India, the day is marked with various events and activities, including seminars, workshops, and cultural programs. It provides an opportunity to recognize the contributions of cooperatives, raise awareness about their benefits, and promote their growth and development. The International Day of Cooperatives is observed annually on July 1st.

International Day of Cooperatives facts

• The theme for International Day of Cooperatives in 2023 was Cooperatives: partners for accelerated sustainable development.
  The theme in 2022 was Cooperatives Build a Better World.
• Globally, 1 billion people are members of cooperatives according to the IWDC.
• According to IWDC, in 2023, there are over 30,000 cooperatives operating in every sector of the U.S. economy.
• It is estimated that cooperatives contribute around 4% to India's overall GDP.
• Approximately 50% of the agricultural credit in India is provided by the cooperative sector, and cooperatives contribute significantly to the distribution of essential commodities.

In the News and Trending in India for International Day of Cooperatives

Top things to do in India for this observance

• Explore upcoming events near you. The International Cooperative Alliance hosts events that focus on community and societal growth.
• Watch the UN's 2020 International Day of Cooperatives video if you missed it. The video focuses on cooperative solutions that can help lower the risks of climate change.
• Local communities often organize cultural programs, street plays, and performances to promote cooperative principles. Participating in these events can be a fun way to learn about cooperatives and their impact on communities in India.
• Visit local cooperative societies and organizations. As part of the celebrations, many cooperative societies and organizations in India open their doors to the public to showcase their activities and explain their roles in various sectors, such as agriculture, banking, housing, and small-scale industries.