The Integrated Cooperative Development Project (ICDP) was introduced by National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) during 1985-86. This project has been in operation in majority of the districts in India. However, very few attempts have been made to study the impact of this project. The present work analyzed the impact of ICDP and the sustainability of the outcome of the project in Theni district, Tamil Nadu.

The project was introduced in Theni district during the year 2005-06 with the total outlay of Rs 987.73 lakhs and the project was completed on 31 March 2011. This study found that ICDP’s monetary and non-monetary interventions have created both tangible and intangible impact on the business profile of cooperative societies in this district. As compare to pre-project period with post-project period, the latter witnessed many cooperatives in the district which have become viable entities and could retain their image among the members and other stakeholders through enhanced service, general facelift, and inclusive approach.

The books available at present in the field of Cooperation and Cooperatives have not detailed about this Pan India Project of National Cooperative Development Corporation, New Delhi. This book has been written keeping in mind the requirements of both the researchers and the officials with examples for office note/resolutions. This book will serve as a base for further research into the field of Cooperation, Rural Development, & Third Sector Enterprises at college/university/training institute level.

Dr K. Ravichandran is Associate Professor and Head, Department of Cooperation, Gandhigram Rural Institute, Gandhigram, Tamil Nadu.