ISSN (Online) : 2456 - 0774

Email : ijasret@gmail.com

ISSN (Online) 2456 - 0774

Empowering the Marginalized:The Role of Cooperatives in Financial Inclusion

Abstract

Financial inclusion remains a global developmental priority, especially among marginalized populations who are often excluded from formal banking services. This research paper explores the transformative role of cooperatives as grassroots financial institutions capable of bridging the socio-economic divide. Unlike traditional banks, cooperatives are member-owned, democratically controlled, and designed to serve the financial and social interests of their communities. By examining cooperative structures, governance models, and outreach mechanisms, this study investigates how cooperatives enhance access to credit, promote savings, and enable entrepreneurial growth among underserved groups such as rural women, landless farmers, and informal sector workers. Through a mixed-method approach combining comparative case studies, mathematical modeling, and simulation analysis, the paper quantifies the effectiveness of cooperatives in expanding financial access. The findings indicate a significant improvement in household income stability, social capital development, and local economic resilience. Moreover, the study highlights strategic pathways for cooperative scalability, digital integration, and policy support. The research contributes to the broader discourse on inclusive finance and offers actionable recommendations for governments, NGOs, and cooperative federations. Keywords: Cooperatives, Financial Inclusion, Marginalized Communities, Microfinance, Rural Economy, Economic Empowerment, Social Capital, Inclusive Growth

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Paper Submission Open For August 2025
UGC indexed in (Old UGC) 2017
Last date for paper submission 31 August 2025
Deadline Submit the paper anytime.
Publication of Paper Within 15-30 Days after completing all the formalities
Publication Fees  Rs.5000 (UG student)
Publication Fees  Rs.6000 (PG student)