Cooperative Finance and Sustainable Development Goals: The Contribution of PACCS to Inclusive Rural Development in Tamil Nadu

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.

Primary Agricultural Cooperative Credit Societies, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, and 16) and Livelihood.