The สหกรณ์ออมทรัพย์กรมส่งเสริมการปกครองท้องถิ่น, or the Department of Local Administration Cooperative, is a cooperative established in Thailand with the objective of promoting and improving the economic well-being of the local communities through savings and credit. The cooperative is a joint venture between the Department of Local Administration, which is under the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
The cooperative has been in existence for over 60 years and has played a significant role in the socio-economic development of the rural areas of Thailand. The cooperative is a member-owned and operated financial institution, where members contribute savings and have access to affordable credit. The cooperative also offers other financial services, such as insurance, money transfers, and investment opportunities.
The Department of Local Administration Cooperative has a strong focus on promoting financial literacy and education among its members. The cooperative provides financial education programs to its members, which include workshops, seminars, and training programs on topics such as budgeting, savings, and investment. The cooperative also provides financial counseling services to help members make informed financial decisions.
One of the key features of the Department of Local Administration Cooperative is its focus on social responsibility. The cooperative provides financial support to local communities, particularly in areas where there is a high level of poverty or unemployment. The cooperative also supports various community development initiatives, such as infrastructure development, health care, and education.
The cooperative has also played a significant role in supporting the agricultural sector in Thailand. The cooperative provides credit and other financial services to farmers, helping them to improve their agricultural practices and increase their productivity. The cooperative also supports agricultural research and development, helping farmers to adopt new technologies and techniques that can help them to increase their yields and improve their income.
Over the years, the Department of Local Administration Cooperative has expanded its operations, with branches throughout Thailand. The cooperative has also expanded its range of financial services, offering a wide range of products to meet the diverse needs of its members.
One of the unique features of the Department of Local Administration Cooperative is its focus on promoting gender equality. The cooperative has implemented various initiatives aimed at empowering women, including providing financial support to women-led businesses and promoting women’s participation in decision-making processes.
The Department of Local Administration Cooperative has received several awards and recognitions for its contribution to the socio-economic development of Thailand. In 2016, the cooperative was awarded the Best Cooperative Award by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The cooperative has also been recognized by the International Cooperative Alliance for its contribution to the development of the cooperative movement in Thailand.
In conclusion, the Department of Local Administration Cooperative is a significant contributor to the socio-economic development of Thailand. The cooperative has played a vital role in promoting financial literacy and education among its members, supporting local communities, and promoting gender equality. The cooperative’s focus on social responsibility and its commitment to promoting the well-being of its members has made it a model for other cooperatives in Thailand and around the world.
