PACS: Transforming Rural Livelihoods

On 25th September 2026, Odisha government launched ‘Sambandh ’, a mega membership drive aimed at strengthening Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) across the state.

What are PACS?

PACS are the grass root level arms of the short-term co-operative credit structure.
They deal directly with the rural (agricultural) borrowers, give those loans and collect repayments of loans given and also undertake distribution and marketing functions.

What Role Do PACS Play in Strengthening Rural Livelihoods?

Agricultural Credit: Provide agricultural credit to the farmers at subsidized rate to purchase agricultural equipment.
Agricultural Inputs Supply: Supplies agricultural inputs like fertilizers, seeds, insecticides, and implements to farmers.
Improving Farmers’ Income: Assist farmers in the marketing of their agricultural produce and provides support in finding better markets, thereby improving farmers’ income and reducing dependency on middlemen.
Enhancing Financial Literacy: Conduct various training programs and workshops to enhance the financial literacy and awareness of farmers, empowering them to make informed financial decisions.
Promoting Financial Inclusion: Encourage agriculturists to save, accept deposit from them, offer loans to deserving borrowers, and collect repayments, thus promoting financial inclusion.