Gadgil on Cooperative Movement

Abstract

The article brings to light the deep commitment, as well as, the extremely pragmatic approach of Dr. D. R. Gadgil towards the development of the cooperative movement in India. Cooperation appealed to him because it offered an opportunity for people to come together, assume leadership of an organization and promote public accountability. His practical approach becomes evident when he spoke against officialdom but was quick enough to point out the inevitability of government participation at the early stage of the cooperative movement. The cooperative movement he dreamt of could easily accommodate people with different political views. The only condition necessary was that they should act as cooperative members and not as representatives of different political parties.