Ramesan Paleri, the chairman of Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society, died at age 66 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Coimbatore. His body will be taken to Kozhikode, with final rites scheduled for Wednesday.

Key Takeaways

  • Ramesan Paleri, 66, dies in Coimbatore hospital
  • Chairman of one of Asia’s largest cooperatives for over 30 years
  • Body to be transported to Kozhikode; funeral on Wednesday

Ramesan Paleri’s Demise

Ramesan Paleri, chairman of the Vadakara‑based Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society Ltd. (ULCCS) in Kozhikode, Kerala, passed away on Monday morning, July 28, 2026, at a private hospital in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

Paleri had steered ULCCS—one of Asia’s largest cooperative societies—through a period of rapid modernization, securing major infrastructure contracts across India and abroad. His three‑decade tenure transformed the cooperative from a modest labor union into a powerhouse of construction, power, and water projects.

Historical Background

Founded in 1905, the Uralungal cooperative was originally created to provide stable employment for local artisans. Over a century, it evolved into a multi‑sector conglomerate, pioneering India’s first hydro‑electric project in 1991 and consistently delivering large‑scale public works. Paleri’s leadership from the early 2000s amplified its financial stability and social responsibility initiatives.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Paleri’s death could reshape the strategic direction of Kerala’s cooperative model, as his industry networks and visionary approach are hard to replace. The transition may affect ongoing projects, investor confidence, and regional employment generation.

"Ramesan Paleri not only built an institution; he elevated the cooperative model to global standards," said industry analyst Dr. Ajay Kumar.
Did You Know?: Uralungal’s 1991 hydro‑electric plant remains one of the longest‑operating renewable energy projects in South India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When will ULCCS appoint a new permanent chairman?

A: The board announced an interim chairman will be named within two weeks, with a formal election to follow shortly thereafter.

Q2: Will ongoing ULCCS projects be impacted by Paleri’s passing?

A: The cooperative assures that all current contracts will continue uninterrupted, thanks to a robust operational team.