What is the primary function of an agricultural co-operative?

The primary function of an agricultural co-operative is to process, market, and distribute products collectively. This cooperative approach allows farmers to pool their resources and efforts, which can lead to economies of scale, better pricing strategies, and enhanced bargaining power against larger distributors and retailers. By working together, members can share the costs and risks associated with marketing and distribution, creating a more efficient and effective system for getting their products to market.

In contrast, the other options focus on individual actions or narrow scopes. Individual marketing and distribution are usually less effective for small-scale farmers due to resource limitations and lower bargaining power. Providing financial assistance, while important, does not encompass the broader operational aspects of processing and marketing. Lastly, solely focusing on production efficiency neglects the crucial steps of getting products into the hands of consumers, which is a vital part of a co-operative's role in the agricultural supply chain.