The document discusses the changing cooperative environment in India. It describes how cooperatives transitioned from being state-sponsored organizations to having to compete in a liberalized market environment. It outlines several phases of structural adjustment that impacted cooperatives. It discusses options for cooperatives going forward, including increasing size, forging alliances, improving efficiency, and professionalizing management. The document emphasizes the need for a clear cooperative policy, identity, training, and governance structure to help cooperatives sustainably adapt to the new environment.