Multi State Cooperative Society Registration Under Act 2002

Multi state cooperative society

Multi-State Co-operative Society

A multi-state co-operative society is a co-operative organisation whose objects are not confined to a single State and whose membership and operations extend across more than one Indian State. In essence, it provides a legal vehicle through which members across states can form a co‐operative, pooling resources, sharing governance, and functioning under a unified regulatory regime (rather than separate state laws).
For businesses or groups operating in multiple states, registration under the central statute ensures consistent governance, audit compliance, and legal clarity.

Multi state cooperative Registration Delhi

Multi-State Co-operative Societies in India

The Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002 (MSCS Act)

The Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002 (MSCS Act) — enacted as Act No. 39 of 2002 — provides a comprehensive and uniform legal framework for co-operative societies whose objectives and operations extend beyond the boundaries of a single State. It also governs earlier registered societies that continue to function in multiple States across India.

Key Objectives of the MSCS Act

Encourage voluntary formation and democratic functioning of multi-state co-operatives.
Promote self-help, mutual aid, and equitable participation.
Establish transparent, uniform governance and audit systems.
Ensure central oversight by the Central Registrar of Co-operative Societies.

The Multi-State Co-operative Societies Rules, 2002

The corresponding MSCS Rules, 2002 provide detailed procedures for registration, management, audit, and administration of multi-state co-operatives, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Key Features of the Rules

Application & Registration: Forms, documents, and prescribed fees.
Bye-laws: Procedures for drafting, amending, and registration.
Governance: Rules for AGMs, elections, and voting rights.
Audit & Accounts: Procedures for auditing, inspection, and reporting.

Multi-State Co-operative Society Registration Procedure

Registering a Multi-State Co-operative Society involves the following key stages:

Eligibility Verification

The society’s objectives must extend beyond one State and be structured for inter-state operations.

Drafting of Bye-laws

Prepare bye-laws aligned with the MSCS Act, 2002 and corresponding Rules.

Application to the Central Registrar

File the application under Sections 6 and 7 of the Act with all supporting documents.

Submission of Required Documents

Include membership lists, business details, and address of the principal place of business.

Issuance of Certificate

Upon satisfaction, the Central Registrar issues the Certificate of Registration, granting corporate status.

Audit of Multi-State Co-operative Society

Auditing is a crucial compliance requirement under the MSCS Act and Rules:

Annual Account Maintenance

Every society must maintain accurate books and prepare annual financial statements.

Appointment of Qualified Auditors

The Rules define qualifications, rights, and procedures for auditor selection and duties.

Special Audits or Inspections

The Central Government may order special audits or inspections whenever necessary.

Non-Compliance Penalties

Failure to comply may lead to penalties, suspension, or dissolution under the Act.

Registration Fees

The Act and Rules prescribe specific fees for registration, inspection, and amendments. The exact schedule is determined by Central Government notifications or Registrar’s circulars. Always refer to the official Central Registrar Portal for current fee updates.

List of Multi-State Co-operative Societies in India

Over 1,500 societies operate under the MSCS Act, spanning credit, agriculture, dairy, and housing sectors. Maharashtra leads with the highest number of registered multi-state societies.

Why Choose Our Services in Dwarka, Delhi

We provide complete end-to-end support for MSCS registration and compliance:

Expert Legal Assistance

Professional support for registration, documentation, and compliance under MSCS Act, 2002.

Central Registrar Coordination

Seamless liaison with Central Registrar offices for submissions and follow-ups.

End-to-End Compliance

Continuous advisory on audits, membership structures, and governance policies.

Whether you are forming a new society or restructuring an existing one, our expert consultants ensure a smooth process with complete legal compliance.

Contact Our Experts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Apply to the Central Registrar with members from at least two states and proper bye-laws.

State cooperative works in one state; Multi state cooperative works in two or more states under a central law.

A society operating across multiple states under the MSCS Act, 2002.

Agriculture, credit, marketing, dairy, production, housing, consumer and other lawful cooperative services.

A central law governing societies operating in more than one state.

Providing economic benefits like production, lending, marketing and distribution to members in multiple states.

26 July 1966

The Central Registrar of Cooperative Societies under the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India.

Central Registrar & RBI (for deposit-related compliance).

MULTI STATE COOPERATIVE SOCIETY