"The origin of co-operative housing societies."

 

"The origin of co-operative 

housing societies"

               In India, the idea was introduced by the British who founded the first Co-operative Societies Act in 1904 but only applied to credit societies for farmers. The first co-operative housing society was established in 1909 in Bangalore called The Bangalore Building Co-operative Society, followed by the Bombay Co-operative Housing Association in 1913, which also established the first ever model bye-laws. The Central government formed the Co-operative Societies Act in 1912 to lay down constitutional mandates for co-operatives.

               The post-independence era saw a slow but steady growth of housing societies aided by five-year plans. In 1969, the National Co-operative Housing Federation was formed as a common forum to aid housing societies in getting funds and general insurance, conduct research, and assist State Level Co-operative Housing Federations. Due to rapid urbanization and government intervention, housing societies have received the benefit of multiple state and central-level schemes, which provide loans and land development assistance, in addition to amendments in cooperative housing laws that are more friendly to small to medium housing societies.

              Cooperative housing societies have their origins in the cooperative movement, which emerged in the 19th century as a response to the social and economic challenges brought about by industrialization. The cooperative movement aimed to address issues such as poor working conditions, inadequate housing, and economic inequality by promoting the idea of cooperative ownership and management.

              The concept of cooperative housing societies specifically gained traction as a means to address the housing needs of working-class individuals and communities. One of the early examples of cooperative housing can be traced back to Rochdale, England, in 1844. The Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society was formed by a group of weavers who pooled their resources to purchase goods collectively, including housing.

              The principles established by the Rochdale Society, known as the Rochdale Principles, became the foundation for the cooperative movement. These principles emphasized voluntary and open membership, democratic control, economic participation by members, autonomy and independence, education, and concern for the community.

              The cooperative housing model was later adopted in various parts of the world, including continental Europe and the United States. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, cooperative housing societies emerged as a response to urbanization and the need for affordable housing for working-class families.

              The cooperative housing society model involves residents collectively owning and managing the property, and making decisions through democratic processes. Members contribute financially to the cooperative, enabling the society to purchase or build housing units. The cooperative structure helps to ensure that housing remains affordable, as members share responsibilities and costs.

              Over time, cooperative housing societies have evolved and taken different forms to meet the diverse housing needs of communities. The principles of cooperation, however, remain central to these societies, emphasizing community involvement, mutual support, and democratic governance. Today, cooperative housing societies continue to play a significant role in providing affordable and community-oriented housing solutions around the world.