The Determinants of Rural Production Cooperative's Performance in South of Kerman Province

This study aimed to find out the performance of Rural Production Cooperatives (RPCs) towards agricultural development and to determine factors that are most likely key determinants of the performance of RPCs in the south of Kerman Province. A survey method was conducted with a sample of RPC members in the area. Based on the critical random sampling, out of 13 active and successful cooperatives, one was chosen. Fifty members of the selected cooperative were randomly selected. The data were collected by questionnaire. A panel of experts confirmed the face validity of the questionnaire and its reliability was tested by using a sample of 15 farmers in an RPC outside the study area. The Cronbach α coefficient (more than 0.70 for all dimensions) were confirmed the questionnaire. Findings revealed the desirable performance of PRCs. Furthermore, 6 components of the performance (pre-cultivation, cultivation, husbandry, harvest, post-harvest stages, and extension services) were placed in a medium position. The results of hierarchical regression indicated that the models were able to explain a high percentages of variability in performance of RPC. Among the variables postulated in the model, “free agricultural machines”, “how to deal with the villagers”, “the level of education of members and the director”, “giving credits and loans to cooperative” and “job satisfaction of the director” had a significant influence on the performance of RPC regarding agricultural development.