Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has lauded Kerala’s Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society (ULCCS) on completing 100 years of excellence. Recognized as one of India’s most successful labour cooperatives, ULCCS has played a crucial role in Kerala’s infrastructure development.
In a video message, Gadkari said, “I congratulate and extend my special wishes to ULCCS for their outstanding work and success story. Having been associated with the cooperative sector, it is a moment of great pleasure and pride for me. The success of this society is truly one of the most iconic developments in the field of cooperatives in the country.”
“From my ministry, I am seriously considering providing special incentives and support to you. I have already discussed this with my secretary. At present, the law does not permit it, but I am determined to find a way.”
Gadkari further highlighted ULCCS’s remarkable journey, stating, “The journey that began under the visionary leadership of Guru Vagbhatananda has transformed into a powerful movement, empowering thousands of individuals and their families. ULCCS has not only made immense contributions to Kerala’s infrastructure development but has also earned international recognition as a model cooperative. Its commitment to quality and timely execution is truly commendable. I am truly impressed with the way you are working—it is an iconic example for all cooperatives in the country.”
“I extend my best wishes to all of you. As an individual and as a minister, I will continue to support and encourage you”, Gadkari added.
In a statement, ULCCS expressed gratitude for the minister’s commendation. The ULCCS says “We are deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition and appreciation from the Honourable Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, on the momentous occasion of celebrating 100 years of ULCCS excellence.”
The note further reads “Minister’s acknowledgment of our journey as an “iconic development” in the field of cooperative societies inspires us to uphold and further this legacy. We extend our sincere gratitude for his invaluable support and encouragement as we continue our pursuit of excellence and distinction.”
ULCCS, founded in 1925 in the Malabar region of Kerala, emerged from adversity. A group of 14 young workers, victims of caste-based discrimination, formed the cooperative with the guidance of social reformer Guru Vagbhatanandan. Their vision was self-reliance and economic empowerment through collective effort.
At the time, caste dictated access to resources in Malabar. The Thiyya community, which comprised nearly 90% of the population, owned less than 10% of the land. With little economic opportunity, marginalised workers sought financial independence through cooperation. Initially registered as the Uralungal Labourers’ Mutual Aid and Cooperative Society, the group evolved into ULCCS, now a dominant force in Kerala’s construction sector.
Over the decades, ULCCS has transformed from a small labour collective into a thriving enterprise, providing thousands of jobs and diversifying into sectors such as IT and infrastructure development. Despite challenges, the cooperative continues to set benchmarks in worker-led development.
Gadkari’s recognition underscores ULCCS’s remarkable journey and its enduring contribution to India’s cooperative movement.
