Q1. The 97th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2011 made which of the following a fundamental right?
- Right to vote in cooperative elections
- Right to form co-operative societies
- Right to professional training for co-operative members
- Right to government funding for co-operatives
Correct Option: 2. Right to form co-operative societies.
Explanation: The 97th Amendment added Article 19(1)(c) which includes the right to form co-operative societies as a fundamental right. This elevates its legal status similar to the right to form associations or unions.
Q2. Which Article, introduced by the 97th Amendment, directs the State to promote co-operative societies?
- Article 50
- Article 243ZK
- Article 43
- Article 43B
Correct Option: 4. Article 43B.
Explanation: Article 43B, inserted into the Directive Principles of State Policy, directs the State to promote voluntary formation, autonomous functioning, democratic control, and professional management of co-operative societies.
Q3. Under Article 243ZJ, what is the maximum number of directors a co-operative society board can have?
- 15
- 18
- 21
- 25
Correct Option: 3. 21.
Explanation: The Constitution limits the board of a co-operative society to a maximum of 21 directors, though states may decide the exact number within this limit.
Q4. Which of the following provisions applies specifically to multi-state co-operative societies?
- State Acts and State Government shall regulate them
- They are exempt from constitutional regulations
- References to “State” are replaced by “Central” in Part IX-B
- They are regulated by the Election Commission of India
Correct Option: 3. References to “State” are replaced by “Central” in Part IX-B.
Explanation: For multi-state co-operative societies, Part IX-B applies with modification, treating references to “State Legislature” or “State Government” as references to Parliament and Central Government, respectively (Article 243ZR).
Q5. What is the term of office for elected members and office bearers of a co-operative society’s board?
- 3 years
- 5 years
- 6 years
- 7 years
Correct Option: 2. 5 years.
Explanation: As per Article 243ZJ, the term is 5 years from the date of election. This ensures democratic continuity and limits indefinite holdover by nominated members.