Maharashtra state goes fully digital for cooperative society registrations

Gorai-based women’s group ‘Sphurti Mahila Audyogik Utpadak Sahakar Sanstha’ was the first to register via the new portal. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Gone are the days when registration of cooperative societies was a tedious process requiring multiple visits to the office of the Registrar of Cooperative Societies and extensive documentation work.

In a progressive step towards digital governance and citizen-centric administration, Maharashtra has operationalised an online mechanism for the registration of cooperative societies through the ‘Aaple Sarkar' portal, which will allow online registration of cooperative societies. Interestingly, a women's self-help group from Gorai in Borivili West has become the first to get itself registered online.

Major change

This reform, rooted in the mandate of time-bound service delivery under the Right to Public Services framework, marks a decisive shift from manual procedures to a transparent, accountable, and technology-driven system under the Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act, 1960.

It is expected to significantly reduce delays and bring uniformity in the formation and regulation of cooperative institutions across the state, say officials from Maharashtra State Housing Federation, who worked closely with the cooperative department to make this happen. The system records every stage digitally, creating an audit trail. It also allows online amendments of by-laws, reducing discretion and improving governance standards.

Single-window access

Applicants must create a user ID on the portal to initiate the process by paying a nominal fee of R50. The platform enables single-window access to multiple government services, allowing users to complete applications online without visiting government offices.

Time-bound approval

After approvals, promoters deposit share capital in a cooperative bank and upload proof. The Registrar is required to issue a digital registration certificate within 30 days, ensuring faster and more predictable outcomes.

Eligibility, legal safeguards

Despite digitisation, statutory norms remain intact. A housing society must have at least five promoter members from different families or 51 per cent of flat or plot purchasers. Promoters must appoint a chief promoter to handle registration and compliance, explained Advocate Shreeprasad Parab, expert director, Maharashtra State Housing Federation.

Modern governance

Experts have stressed the need for a unified approval system for redevelopment projects, particularly self-redevelopment, which currently faces delays due to multiple clearances. The online registration system is seen as a significant administrative and constitutional reform that could transform cooperative governance in Maharashtra and serve as a model for other states.

Online process

The process begins with an online application for name reservation and bank account permission, along with document uploads after paying the fee. The registrar reviews applications digitally, raises queries if needed, and applicants must respond within a stipulated time.

Constitutional backing

The reform aligns with constitutional provisions, including the fundamental right to form cooperative societies under Article 19(1)(c), the right to dignified living under Article 21, and the state's duty under Article 43B to promote cooperative institutions, Parab explained.

Women's cooperative 1st to register

A Gorai-based women's group has become the first to register online under the new system. The 15-member ‘Sphurti Mahila Audyogik Utpadak Sahakar Sanstha' - formed for business activities like snack production and school-related work - had approached the district deputy registrar's office for manual registration.

They were guided to the ‘Aaple Sarkar' portal, where the process was completed in a day. "We saved time and avoided repeated visits. Our name is approved and reserved. We are now in the process of opening a bank account, and even those details can be uploaded online. Once all formalities, including payment of official fees of R2500 for registration, are completed, we will receive our registration certificate," Ashok Uttekar of Gorai 2, Borivli West, said.

Expert view

Shreeprasad Parab, expert director, Maharashtra State Housing Federation, said,
"Digitisation will extend beyond online registration to functions like by-law amendments, enabling fully online, traceable governance. Each stage is digitally recorded, improving transparency and strengthening accountability. A unified, time-bound digital mechanism would streamline processes and empower societies."

Official Speak

Rajesh Lovekar, District Deputy Registrar, CS-4, Mumbai
‘The online registration facility, which was earlier paused due to technical and procedural issues, has now been reintroduced in a more user-friendly format. The system is aligned with Ease of Doing Business principles, with reduced documentation requirements and a simplified, transparent process for citizens.'