Multipurpose Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (MPACS) are grassroots-level cooperative institutions in rural India that offer a wide range of services to farmers and rural communities. Unlike traditional Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), which mainly provide short-term agricultural credit, MPACS function as integrated rural support centers. They offer credit facilities, supply essential farm inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, provide storage solutions, rent out farm equipment, and assist in the procurement and marketing of agricultural produce. In some cases, they also extend non-farm credit and facilitate access to banking and insurance services. MPACS are owned and managed by their local members, mainly farmers, and operate under the State Cooperative Societies Acts as part of the three-tier cooperative credit structure that includes District Central Cooperative Banks and State Cooperative Banks. These societies play a vital role in rural development by empowering small and marginal farmers, promoting financial inclusion, and encouraging self-reliance in agriculture. Despite facing challenges like poor management, limited modernization, and financial constraints, MPACS continue to be a powerful tool for strengthening the rural economy.
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