• Shaik Darga Madina
• Lt. Dr. Jetti Pandu Rangarao
• Dr. P. Uma Maheswari Devi

Cooperative banks play a vital role in rural development by providing financial services to underserved communities. This study examines their impact in Andhra Pradesh, focusing on West Godavari with an emphasis on agricultural financing, small business support, financial inclusion, and socio-economic development. A mixed-method approach is used, integrating qualitative and quantitative data from surveys, interviews, and secondary sources. Existing research primarily addresses broad financial inclusion, with limited studies on region-specific challenges in West Godavari. This study fills that gap by analyzing cooperative banking operations, their impact, and policy implications for enhancing their role in rural development. Findings reveal that cooperative significantly support small-scale farmers and rural entrepreneurs. However, challenges such as loan defaults, limited technological adoption, and operational inefficiencies hinder their effectiveness . Strengthening governance, enhancing digital banking infrastructure, and implementing region-specific policies can improve their role in fostering rural development.

Cooperative Banks, Rural Development, Financial Inclusion, West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, Agricultural Finance

"The Role of Cooperative Banks in Rural Development in Andhra Pradesh: A Case Study of West Godavari", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no.495-500, March-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRGU06093.pdf

"The Role of Cooperative Banks in Rural Development in Andhra Pradesh: A Case Study of West Godavari", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no. pp495-500, March-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRGU06093.pdf