DefinePK

Research Objective

To explore the satisfaction of members regarding services provided by agricultural cooperative societies in Punjab, Pakistan.

Methodology

A mixed-method research approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection. The study area was Punjab province, Pakistan, focusing on Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala divisions. A sample of 384 members of agricultural cooperatives and 50 key informants (employees of cooperatives) were selected. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured interview schedule for members and an interview guide for key informants. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS with descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (linear regression). Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Define Research Objective] --> B[Select Study Area and Sample];
    B --> C[Data CollectionQuantitative & Qualitative];
    C --> D[Data Analysis SPSS & Content Analysis];
    D --> E[Identify Key Findings];
    E --> F[Discuss Findings];
    F --> G[Formulate Conclusions & Recommendations];                    

Discussion

The study highlights that while agricultural cooperatives offer various services, member satisfaction is not consistently high across all services. The lack of standardized membership criteria and the influence of factors like land size and social status in membership and leadership roles suggest potential issues with democratic control and equitable participation. The findings suggest that while some services like farm management guidance and commodity marketing information are positively correlated with satisfaction, others are not, indicating a gap between service provision and member expectations. The impact of age, education, and membership status on satisfaction points to demographic factors influencing how members perceive and benefit from cooperatives.

Key Findings

- The majority of respondents (64.4%) were ordinary members.
- Membership criteria were not standardized, with agricultural land holding size (mean=3.67), social networking (mean=3.39), and financial status (mean=3.16) being perceived as important.
- Guidance regarding farm management and information about commodity marketing showed statistically significant mean differences in satisfaction (P<0.05).
- Farmers were more satisfied with loan schemes (mean=2.69) and access to inputs (mean=2.67).
- Regression analysis indicated that age, education, status of membership, and land size had a statistically significant impact (P<0.05) on farmer satisfaction.

Conclusion

Agricultural cooperatives in Punjab, Pakistan, have the potential to benefit farming communities, but their functioning requires improvement. Key recommendations include involving educated individuals, establishing clear membership criteria, strengthening loan schemes, and supporting cooperative farming. Addressing the identified weaknesses in service delivery and management is crucial for enhancing member satisfaction and the overall effectiveness of these cooperatives.

Fact Check

- Total of 384 members and 50 key informants participated in the study.
- Agricultural land holding size was regarded as the most important criterion for membership with a mean of 3.67.
- Age, education, status of membership, and land size had a statistically significant impact (P<0.05) on farmer satisfaction.

Mind Map