The year-long centenary celebration of the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society (ULCCS) Ltd. was inaugurated on 13 February 2024, by the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, at Vadakara, Kerala, India. This landmark event not only commemorates a century of resilience but also highlights ULCCS's unwavering commitment to social justice, empowerment, and sustainable development.
Founded in 1925 by a group of 14 courageous workers in rural Malabar, ULCCS emerged as a testament to the spirit of collective action and social reform. ULCCS was not merely a business venture but a beacon of hope against exploitation, caste oppression, and social injustices prevalent during the struggle for independence.
Mr. Balasubramanian Iyer, Regional Director and Mr. Ganesh Gopal, Lead-Entrepreneurship Development, ICA-AP attended the centenary event held. They utilized the opportunity to meet with the officials of ULCCS and IIM Kozhikode on the sidelines of the event. They also addressed an audience of ULCCS members, employees and local community members at the culmination ceremony of a bike rally and cultural performance held at Vadakara on the day before the centenary launch event.
The Chief Minister, in his inaugural address, hailed ULCCS as a paradigm of people-centric development, contrasting sharply with the prevailing corporate capitalist model. He applauded ULCCS's adherence to principles of honesty, integrity, and quality, echoing the ethos instilled by its visionary founder.
A highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the book 'Uralungal: Stories and Facts: A Comprehensive History of ULCCS', authored by journalist Manoj K Puthiyavila. This comprehensive work, released by the Chief Minister and presented to acclaimed writer Mr. M Mukundan, chronicles ULCCS's remarkable journey and its transformative impact on society.
Dignitaries from various spheres of public life graced the centenary celebrations, including several State Ministers, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Mr. P.K. Kunhalikutty, legislators, literary luminaries and members of the local community. Mr. Iyer delivered an inspiring address, highlighting ULCCS's significance as a model cooperative not only in India but also on the international stage. The festivities also included a vibrant cultural extravaganza, showcasing the rich tapestry of Kerala's heritage and artistic talent. The celebration showcased mesmerising dance performances and musical renditions of various popular artists from across India.
As ULCCS embarks on its centenary year, a series of initiatives have been unveiled to chart the course for the future. Plans include the establishment of a private skill university, integration of solar power and renewable energy in new projects, and a renewed focus on agriculture and tourism ventures. Additionally, the creation of 'model farms' and 'model villages', along with the introduction of labour banks and public solar projects, underscores ULCCS's commitment to holistic development and sustainability.
The centenary celebrations also featured the 'Colours of Resilience' exhibition, showcasing vivid portrayals of ULCCS's transformative journey and the enduring legacy of Guru Vagbhatananda's (a Hindu religious leader) social reform movement.
As ULCCS marks a century of empowerment and progress, it stands as a shining example of the transformative potential of cooperative enterprise. From humble beginnings to becoming one of Asia's largest labour cooperative societies, ULCCS's journey is a testament to the power of collective action in building a more equitable and just society.
