CTCF Nepal and its member cooperatives are registered under the cooperative department and strongly guided by the cooperative principles. The entire activities of CTCF Nepal are to promote the tea sector through the cooperative movement. CTCF Nepal also promotes Cooperative to Cooperative business model. Seven principle followed by CTCF Nepal.
1. Voluntary and Open Membership
Cooperatives are open to all individuals who are willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of gender, social status, race, political affiliation, or religion. Membership is voluntary, meaning no one is forced to join or stay in the cooperative. This inclusivity promotes equality and fairness.
2. Democratic Member Control
Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. Each member typically has one vote, regardless of the amount of capital they contribute. This ensures that control stays with the members and not with a select few.
3. Member Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. This capital is usually used for the cooperative’s development and to benefit members. Surpluses are either reinvested in the cooperative, distributed among members based on their transactions, or used for community development.
4. Autonomy and Independence
Cooperatives are self-help organizations controlled by their members. Even when they enter into agreements with other organizations or receive external funding, they maintain their autonomy and ensure that decisions are made democratically by the members.
5. Education, Training, and Information
Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can effectively contribute to the cooperative’s development. They also inform the general public—particularly young people and opinion leaders—about the nature and benefits of cooperation.
6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, national, regional, and international structures. This principle promotes solidarity and collective growth among cooperatives.
7. Concern for Community
While focusing on member needs, cooperatives also work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members. This includes environmental care, social responsibility, and community welfare programs.